Based on the data provided by the American College Testing Program (ACT), this report summarizes the characteristics of the 12,196 Illinois community college freshmen who took the ACT examination in Fall 1979. The summary focuses on: (1) the average ACT scores of the community college students on the English, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Natural Sciences subtests; (2) the distribution of ACT scores and high school grades; (3) Illinois students' ACT scores compared with national averages; (4) ACT scores and high school grades from 1973 to 1979; (5) the reasons cited by students for attending community colleges; (6) students' special educational needs; (7) educational degree aspirations; (8) students' ethnic background and income level; (9) educational majors and vocational choices; (10) estimated family income; and (11) students' financial aid needs. Major findings reveal that the average ACT composite score for Illinois public community college freshmen in 1979 was 16.2, representing a decrease from the 1973 average of 18.0. Of the freshmen, 57% wanted to obtain a bachelor's degree, 56% indicated that they would apply for financial aid, and 40% expressed a need for additional help in math and study skills. Data tables and graphs are provided throughout the report comparing findings with state and national norms. (JP)