This Frequently Asked Questions section provides clear answers to the questions most often asked by ILR students. The ILR community includes learners with a wide range of comfort levels with technology, campus navigation, and college procedures, so we provide information in full detail to support every member. If you do not find the answer to your question below, please contact the ILR office directly.
About the ILR Program
What is the Institute for Learning in Retirement?
The Lois E. Marshall Institute for Learning in Retirement is a non-credit lifelong learning program at Bergen Community College designed for individuals aged fifty-five and older. ILR courses focus on intellectual enrichment, personal interest, and community engagement. There are no tests, no grades, and no academic prerequisites.
Do I need a college degree to join the ILR?
No. The ILR welcomes members from all educational backgrounds. A college degree is not required.
Do I need to be retired to participate?
No. You must be fifty-five years old or older, but you do not have to be retired.
How many semesters does the ILR offer?
The ILR offers two semesters each academic year:
- Fall Semester
- Spring Semester
Membership and Registration
How do I become a member of the ILR?
You become a member when you register for your courses. No separate application is required.
What does membership cost?
The membership fee is one hundred fifty dollars per semester.
Membership fees are non-refundable and not prorated.
What does membership include?
Membership includes:
- Up to four Primary Courses
- Up to three Bonus Courses
- Library privileges
- Access to the Fitness Center and Pool during posted free time hours
- Eligibility to attend ILR events and lectures
How many courses may I take per semester?
Each member may take:
- Four Primary Courses
- Three Bonus Courses
What is the difference between Primary and Bonus Courses?
- Primary Courses: Multi-week core courses.
- Bonus Courses: One-session or short-session courses offered in addition to primary classes.
How do I register for ILR courses?
You may register:
- Online
- By telephone
- In person
Full instructions appear on the Course Registration and Semester Information page.
How do I reset my password?
- Go to the registration website.
- Click “I forgot sign-in details.”
- Enter your email address.
- Check your email for the reset link.
- Follow the instructions to create a new password.
If you do not receive the reset link, check your spam or junk folder.
What if I register and later decide not to attend a class?
Please notify the ILR office as soon as possible. This allows ILR staff to open the seat for another member.
You do not need to notify the ILR if you are missing just one session of a course.
Can I receive a refund if I change my mind?
No. Membership fees are non-refundable.
Classroom and Campus Information
Where will my classes be held?
Classes may be held:
- In the Technology Building (TEC)
- In the Pitkin Education Center
- In designated movement or studio spaces
- Online
The exact location for each course is listed in the catalog and emailed prior to the start of the semester.
When will I receive my classroom location?
- Classroom assignments are emailed before courses begin.
- Updated classroom lists are posted on the ILR News and Media webpage.
- Printed copies are available at the front desk of Continuing Education and Workforce Development (TEC-115).
What should I do if my classroom changes?
If a classroom changes, ILR will email all registered students. Please check your email regularly.
Where do I park?
ILR students may park in Student Lot B on the Paramus Campus.
No parking permit is required.
How do I find my classroom?
A campus map is available at:
https://bit.ly/3msnHEY
Detailed directions to all commonly used ILR classrooms are listed on the Classroom Locations and Directions page.
Online Courses
How do I access my online class?
One week prior to the start of your course, ILR will email you:
- The link to join the class
- Instructions for accessing the virtual meeting
- Any materials or documents provided by the instructor
What if I cannot find the link?
Check your email inbox, spam folder, and deleted items.
If you still cannot locate the email, contact the ILR office immediately.
Do I need special software?
Most courses use standard web-based meeting software. A computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access is required.
ILR Holidays and Closures for Spring 2026
Classes will not be held on the following dates:
- Spring Break: March 9 through March 13
- Passover: April 1
- Good Friday: April 3
- Memorial Day: May 25
ILR remains open on Presidents Day, Monday, February 16.
Facilities and Campus Access
What facilities may ILR members use?
Members may use:
- Sidney Silverman Library
- Fitness Center (Room S-128)
- Pool during posted free time hours
What do I need to use the Fitness Center or Pool?
You must have:
- A valid Bergen Community College ID card
- A medical “M” sticker
- A medical form on file with Health Services (HS-100)
Contact Health Services at: (201) 447-9257.
When may ILR members use the Fitness Center or Pool?
During posted free time hours.
Schedules are subject to change without notice.
Course Requirements and Special Policies
Are there attendance requirements?
There are no attendance requirements, but students are encouraged to attend regularly out of courtesy to instructors and fellow members.
Are tests or grades given?
No. ILR courses do not include tests, grades, or homework unless an instructor chooses to provide optional exercises.
Are movement classes offered?
Yes. ILR often offers yoga, wellness, balance training, tai chi, and other movement-based classes.
Do I need to complete any forms for movement classes?
Yes. To participate in a movement class or off-campus field trip, you must complete the Bergen Community College Accident Waiver.
The waiver may be:
- Completed in class
- Submitted in advance to the ILR office
Previous Catalogs
Previous ILR catalogs are available for reference.
These can be found on the Previous Catalogs and Archives page.
Additional Information
May I propose a course to teach?
Yes. Course proposals are welcome from new and returning instructors.
Details are available on the Volunteer Teaching and Course Proposals page.
Will the ILR expand to other locations?
The ILR plans to offer courses at the Philip Ciarco Jr. Learning Center in Hackensack in future semesters.
Contact the ILR
If you have additional questions, please contact us.
Telephone: (201) 447-7156
Email: [email protected]
Technology Building, TEC-115
Bergen Community College
400 Paramus Road
Paramus, New Jersey 07652
