It's an opportunity: the chance to take part in an innovative new course designed to meet a need in your community.
It's a connection: the passionate discussion between a small class of eager students and a professor at the top of their field.
It's a foundation: the guidance to prepare a student for success in a challenging program at a four-year university.
It's an achievement: the look shared between a graduate receiving her diploma and her grandson, both filled with pride in her accomplishments and what it means for their family.
Why Oakton?
The truth is there are no wrong answers to the question of "Why Oakton." Every year, 7,000 students enroll at Oakton and thousands more take classes. Each has their own unique reasons and Oakton is committed to meeting the unique needs of all of those thousands of students, so they can further their education and better their lives.
Equity is one of our key values: it means we recognize that every student who comes onto our campus has a different background, different needs and different goals, and we strive to offer every student the exact support and resources they need to succeed.
At Oakton, your success is our success: we embrace diversity, lead with innovation and offer the programs that will help you achieve your goals. No matter where your journey takes you, Oakton will be with you as your guide and partner along every path.
We prepare you to exceed your expectations. College is an investment in time and in cost, and we want to make sure the investment is worth it to you. We utilize a Guided Pathways approach to education to ensure your success and that your time at Oakton gives you lifelong benefits. Whether you are enrolling in our degree and certificate programs or pursuing continuing education, you'll be taught by a faculty that includes PhDs and experts in their field—not teaching assistants—who will prepare you to succeed and excel. We'll outfit you with tools and resources to obtain the certifications or credentials you'll need for your career. You'll also learn to think critically and independently so you'll be able to stand out and take the lead in the field you choose.
We give you the best value. Of course, we understand that the financial cost of getting a degree can be daunting. But part of our mission is to provide access to quality education for our community and everyone in it, so we make sure that our costs remain remarkably affordable. We also offer scholarships, loans and grants to help you pay. At Oakton, you'll be able to start building your future without breaking the bank.
We're there for you if you need it. We know that everyone's experience at Oakton will be unique. You may thrive on your own, working independently to achieve your goals. Or, maybe you'll need a little help sometimes. Don't worry - we've got your back. From our academic advising and career services to our dedicated counseling and Wellness Center, we encourage our students to lean on us for support that's unparalleled amongst community colleges. Whatever you need, whenever you need it, Oakton is there for you.
We’re a place where everyone can belong. From our financial aid for undocumented students to resource groups for African-American and Latinx students and much more, we strive to ensure that Oakton is a place for everyone. The diversity of our student body and our faculty reflects the diversity of our community and the world today. We're constantly working, learning and improving to make sure our campuses in Des Plaines and Skokie, are a safe environment for every student. We also offer hundreds of satellite continuing education locations and a wide range of online course options and our promise is that no matter where or how you choose to learn, you'll be treated with the utmost respect and be given every opportunity to make the most of your time with us, no matter how long that is.
So why Oakton? Because it's a place where you'll learn, you'll grow and you'll build a foundation for wherever your life goes next. Because you'll be part of a community of learners and teachers where everyone has value. Ultimately, it's up to you. But you can be assured that whatever it is that brings you here, your life will be better for it.
That's Oakton. That's who we are. Let's start down the path to your future, together.
What's Next?
Most students will need to fill out the general admission application. A one-time application fee of $25 will be added to your tuition bill. Fill out this application if you are:
Planning to earn an Associate degree.
Planning to transfer to a four-year college/university.
Planning to earn a career certificate at Oakton.
Visiting Oakton and plan to enroll in one or more courses, then transfer back to a home institution.
Taking a class to meet a personal or professional goal.
Your application and admission process may vary if you are a member of one of the following groups. Click on the links to see how we can assist and welcome you.
Current Students If you've taken a class within the last three years, you do NOT need to re-apply. Instead, just log in to myOakton to register for classes. If you've forgotten your login or password, don't worry! You can find your login information by contacting the IT Help Desk at helpdesk@oakton.edu or 847.635.1965 for assistance.
Returning Students If you haven't taken a class with us in three years, you must apply again. However, you won't need to pay the application fee this time.
Age Requirement If you are under age 18, you must have graduated from an accredited high school, or hold a General Education Development (GED) Certificate to be eligible for admission.
If you aren't quite sure or need further information, please contact the Office of Admission and let us know: we're eager to speak with you and answer any questions you might have. Then schedule a tour or visit us virtually to see the Oakton campuses in Des Plaines and Skokie, and how you might fit in here.
Note: Oakton limits connections from outside the U.S. to many of its systems, including myOakton. If you plan to be out of the country for part or all of a term, you will not be able to pay your bill, check your grades, register, or perform other transactions usually accessible through myOakton. In addition, some online classes are not accessible from outside the U.S.
Hours and Locations
Des Plaines, Room 1740 Skokie, Room A100
Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Oakton is closed Friday through Sunday during the summer.
Meet the Admission Team
Lindsey Hunter Director of Admissions and Enrollment lhunter@oakton.edu 847-635-1723 Office: Des Plaines Campus
Maria Ross, Recruitment and Outreach Specialist mross@oakton.edu 847.635.1916 Office: Des Plaines Campus
We give you the best value. Of course, we understand that the financial cost of getting a degree can be daunting. But part of our mission is to provide access to quality education for our community and everyone in it, so we make sure that 
We're there for you if you need it. We know that everyone's experience at Oakton will be unique. You may thrive on your own, working independently to achieve your goals. Or, maybe you'll need a little help sometimes. Don't worry - 
We’re a place where everyone can belong. From our financial aid for undocumented students to resource groups for African-American and Latinx students and much more, we strive to ensure that Oakton is a place for everyone. The diversity of our student body and our faculty reflects the diversity of our community and the world today. We're constantly working, learning and improving to make sure our campuses in Des Plaines and Skokie, are a safe environment for every student. We also offer hundreds of satellite continuing education locations and a wide range of