East Los Angeles College (ELAC) has an international, multicultural student body that complements the 14 communities comprising its primary service area. The college offers both academic transfer courses, which prepare students for admission to four-year colleges and universities, and occupational programs which prepare students for careers in two years or less.

ELAC is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).