Student Technology Standard

Student Technology Standards

To support your academic success, Illinois Central College recommends the following minimum technology standards for students starting Fall 2024.

These standards apply to both in-class and online learning. Some programs may require additional or higher-spec technology—check with your instructor if you’re unsure.

Quick Summary: Device Guidance

• Bring Your Own Laptop or rent/buy one at the East Peoria ICC Bookstore

• Not Recommended: Chromebooks, tablets, and smartphones

• Need help paying? Set up a Bookstore Charge Account before your visit

Minimum Technology Requirements

Hardware

Operating System

• Supported Windows 10 or newer

• Supported macOS 

Web Browser (choose at least one)

• Google Chrome

• Mozilla Firefox

• Microsoft Edge

• Apple Safari

Antivirus Software

• Windows Defender (recommended for Windows)

• macOS XProtect (built-in for Mac)

• Any user-preferred antivirus is acceptable

Additional Info

Online Coursework

Although some tablets and phones can be used occasionally, a laptop or desktop that meets the above standards should be your primary device.

Internet Requirements

All online students must have reliable high-speed internet:

Use Speedtest.net to check your connection.
No internet at home? ICC suggests looking for public Wi-Fi options near you.

ICC does not provide or support off-campus internet services.

Access to Microsoft 365

Enrolled ICC students can use Microsoft Office 365 (Education Edition) for free.

1. Visit: Microsoft 365 for Education

2. Enter your ICC student email (yourname@lab.icc.edu)

3. Choose "I'm a student"

4. Enter the verification code sent to your ICC email

5. Click Skip when asked to send invitations

6. You’ll land on your Office 365 Dashboard

Included:

• Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint (online)

• OneDrive cloud storage

• Other Microsoft 365 tools

Bookstore Charge Account

Need tech or supplies but want to defer payment?

• ICC offers Bookstore Charge Accounts for students.

• These must be set up in advance—they are no longer automatic.

Visit or contact the East Peoria ICC Bookstore for rental or purchase options.

Program-Specific Requirements

Some majors—like Technology, Science, Art & Design, or Health Careers—may require enhanced specs or specialized software.
Contact your instructor or academic advisor for program-specific guidance.

Need Help?

ICC Service Desk
(309) 694-5457
servicedesk@icc.edu
East Peoria Campus, Admin Building, Room L122

Hours:

• Mon–Fri: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM

• Sat & Sun: Closed