Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

The best community colleges offer a great education at an affordable price. Learn more about starting your college education with an associate degree.
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Updated April 5, 2024

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

The Community College Research Center at Columbia University reports that nearly 9,000,000 people attended U.S. community colleges in the 2020-2021 academic year. This figure exceeded the number of students at four-year public colleges.

Students may choose community colleges over four-year schools for many reasons, including affordable tuition, small classes, and an easy application process. Career-aligned certificates and associate degrees can train you for a new job in about 1-2 years.

Featured Online Associate Programs

How to Apply to a Community College

The best community colleges, even those with open enrollment, ask you to meet minimum requirements, pay a fee, and submit an application. Most let you apply online. Some states are also developing partnerships with the districts where students are guaranteed acceptance to nearby public community colleges upon high school graduation.

  • Minimum Requirements: Community colleges' application requirements typically include a high school or GED diploma. Some community colleges may require you to take prerequisite courses or skills assessments for admission.
  • Application Fee: Expect to pay a modest fee to each school where you apply. Speak to an admissions advisor if the fee burdens you financially. They may grant you a fee waiver based on your income.
  • Application Materials: Typical application materials include high school transcripts or proof of GED diploma. Do not forget to submit college transcripts if you have earned undergraduate credits. Some community colleges may also require an essay or interview.

Best Community Colleges in the United States

Read About Our Methodology

#1 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Walla Walla Community College

  • Walla Walla, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Walla Walla Community College prioritizes flexibility in its degree-granting programs. Located in Walla Walla, Washington, the public institution grants degrees in person and online. The school offers 3% of its programs to distance learners.

Both modalities offer rigorous but supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers customize the program based on their personal or professional goals by coordinating with faculty mentors and academic advisors. Career resources include workshops, resume feedback, mock interviews, and job fairs. Undergraduates report a 40% graduation rate.

The financial aid office helps prospective students identify funding opportunities to cover degree costs. Today, 81% of the student body receives financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,700
Out-of-state
$6,200
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,671
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#2 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Santa Barbara City College

  • Santa Barbara, CA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Santa Barbara City College offers a flexible route to a college degree. Learners enrolled at the public institution take classes on the Santa Barbara, California, campus and online. At the school, 1% of all programs provide a distance learning option.

Enrollees benefit from multiple learning formats designed for diverse schedules. Degree-seekers individualize their program by choosing concentrations, minors, and electives that match their personal and professional goals. Learners hone their skills for the job market thanks to resources like career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The school's undergraduate programs report a graduation rate of 41%.

Prospective students can contact the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities. Out of the student body, 42% receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,380
Out-of-state
$8,140
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
14,133
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
No

#3 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Lake Area Technical College

  • Watertown, SD
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Lake Area Technical College provides diverse enrollment options for degree-seekers. The public institution provides both on-campus and online programs from its Watertown, South Dakota, campus. Of the school's total programs, 38% offer online enrollment.

Enrollees can choose the format that matches their learning style and schedule. Degree-seekers work with faculty members and academic advisors to customize the degree based on their personal and professional goals. Learners benefit from institutional resources such as career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. A leader in student success, the school reports a graduation rate of 72%.

Prospective enrollees can contact the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities. According to the most recent data, 94% receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,904
Out-of-state
$2,904
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,228
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#4 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

East San Gabriel Valley Regional Occupational Program

  • West Covina, CA
  • 2 years
  • Campus

East San Gabriel Valley Regional Occupational Program stands out for its exceptional programs. Learners attending the public institution choose from in-person classes on the West Covina, California, campus or online classes.

Enrollees can choose the format that matches their learning style and schedule. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to design an individualized course of study based on transfer credits, interests, and career goals. East San Gabriel Valley Regional Occupational Program offers career services like job fairs and workshops to help learners reach their professional goals. The school reports an 83% graduation rate for its undergraduate programs.

Prospective enrollees may be eligible for internal and external funding opportunities to pay for their degree. Out of the student body, 92% receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
108
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
No

#5 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

New Mexico Military Institute

  • Roswell, NM
  • 2 years
  • Campus

New Mexico Military Institute ranks among the top online colleges. Learners enrolled at the public institution participate in online and on-campus classes offered at the main campus in Roswell.

Both modalities offer rigorous academics and supportive learning environments. The programs prioritize customization to let degree-seekers design a course of study that matches their personal and professional goals. Learners benefit from institutional resources such as career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The school reports a graduation rate of 42% for its undergraduate programs.

Prospective students can contact the financial aid office to learn about their eligibility for funding. Currently, 97% of enrollees receive a financial aid award.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,784
Out-of-state
$8,072
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
48%
Acceptance Rate
34%
Students Enrolled
487
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#6 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

North Central Kansas Technical College

  • Beloit, KS
  • 2 years
  • Campus

The flexible programs at North Central Kansas Technical College offer a variety of options for degree-seekers. The public institution welcomes students to its Beloit campus while also offering online programs.

Both modalities provide rigorous academics and supportive learning communities. Degree-seekers individualize their program by choosing concentrations, minors, and electives that match their personal and professional goals. North Central Kansas Technical College helps learners reach their career goals with institutional resources such as career workshops and job fairs. A leader in student success, the school reports a graduation rate of 63%.

Prospective applicants can contact the financial aid office to learn about their funding eligibility. According to the most recent data, 96% of learners use financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,512
Out-of-state
$4,512
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
913
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Valencia College

  • Orlando, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Valencia College stands out for its exceptional programs. The public institution enrolls learners online and on its Orlando, Florida, campus. At the school, 1% of programs are available online.

In both modalities, enrollees take rigorous classes and benefit from a supportive learning community. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to design an individualized course of study based on transfer credits, interests, and career goals. Valencia College offers career services like job fairs and workshops to help learners reach their professional goals. Bachelor's degree-seekers hold a 42% graduation rate.

The financial aid office connects students with funding opportunities to help offset degree costs. Today, 75% of learners at the institution receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,984
Out-of-state
$7,933
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
47,940
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Snow College

  • Ephraim, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Snow College provides flexible study to learners from all walks of life. Located in Ephraim, Utah, the public institution offers both in-person and online programs. At the school, 1% of all programs provide a distance learning option.

Both modalities offer rigorous but supportive learning environments. The programs prioritize customization to let degree-seekers design a course of study that matches their personal and professional goals. Snow College supports learners with institutional resources like career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The school reports a graduation rate of 43% for its undergraduate programs.

Prospective applicants can connect with financial aid advisors to learn more about scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. According to the most recent data, 90% of learners use financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,410
Out-of-state
$12,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,383
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#9 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Saint Paul College

  • Saint Paul, MN
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Saint Paul College offers programs designed with busy students in mind. Learners attending the public institution choose from in-person classes on the Saint Paul, Minnesota, campus or online classes. At the school, 3% of all programs provide a distance learning option.

Enrollees benefit from multiple learning formats designed for diverse schedules. Faculty mentors and academic advisors work with degree-seekers to create an individualized course of study. Learners hone their skills for the job market thanks to resources like career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The school's undergraduate programs report a graduation rate of 27%.

Prospective students may be eligible for internal and external funding opportunities to pay for their degree. Today, 87% of learners at the institution receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,996
Out-of-state
$4,996
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,656
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Mayland Community College

  • Spruce Pine, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Mayland Community College provides diverse enrollment options for degree-seekers. From its main campus in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, the public institution provides in-person and online programs. Of the school's total programs, 7% offer online enrollment.

Enrollees benefit from several learning formats that fit their schedule and needs. Degree-seekers customize the program based on their personal or professional goals by coordinating with faculty mentors and academic advisors. Mayland Community College offers strong career-planning resources, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The school's undergraduate programs report a graduation rate of 49%.

Prospective students work with financial aid advisors to identify scholarship and grant opportunities. The school reports that 73% of the student body receives financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
399
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
83% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Northwest Iowa Community College

  • Sheldon, IA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus
Northwest Iowa Community College prioritizes flexibility in its degree-granting programs. Learners attending the public institution choose from in-person classes on the Sheldon campus or online classes. The school's programs include 30% that provide distance learning enrollment.

In both modalities, the institution encourages rigorous coursework and supportive learning communities. Degree-seekers work with faculty members and academic advisors to customize the degree based on their personal and professional goals. Northwest Iowa Community College supports learners with institutional resources like career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can expect a 69% graduation rate.

Prospective students work with financial aid advisors to identify scholarship and grant opportunities. Out of the total student body, 83% receive a financial aid award.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,190
Out-of-state
$5,490
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,777
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
67% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#12 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Southeast Community College Area

  • Lincoln, NE
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Southeast Community College Area offers a variety of options for busy students. Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, the public institution offers both in-person and online programs. At the school, 17% of degree-granting programs offer an online option.

Both modalities offer rigorous academics and supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers can work with faculty members and their academic advisor to customize their degree path to suit their personal and professional goals. Learners can access topnotch institutional resources during their time at Southeast Community College Area, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can expect a 33% graduation rate.

Prospective students benefit from the financial aid office, which provides guidance on funding opportunities. Typically, 89% receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,448
Out-of-state
$2,952
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
9,756
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Victor Valley College

  • Victorville, CA
  • 2 years
  • Campus

Victor Valley College offers programs designed with busy students in mind. Located in Victorville, California, the public institution provides on-campus and online programs.

In both modalities, enrollees take rigorous classes and benefit from a supportive learning community. The programs prioritize customization to let degree-seekers design a course of study that matches their personal and professional goals. Learners prepare for the job market through mock interviews, career workshops, and job fairs. A leader in student success, the school reports a graduation rate of 21%.

Prospective applicants can connect with the financial aid office to learn more about internal and external funding opportunities. The school reports that 82% of the student body receives financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,402
Out-of-state
$9,142
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
13,126
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
No

#14 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Georgia Military College

  • Milledgeville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Georgia Military College stands out for its commitment to higher education. The public institution enrolls learners on its Milledgeville campus and in online programs. Currently, 87% of programs enroll online learners.

Undergraduates choose from two bachelor's degrees. Enrollees can choose the learning format that best fits their needs and schedule. Customization options such as electives, minors, and concentrations let degree-seekers create an individualized course of study. Georgia Military College offers strong career-planning resources, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. A leader in student success, the college boasts a 28% graduation rate.

Prospective learners may be eligible for scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. According to the most recent data, 92% of students use financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,165
Out-of-state
$6,165
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
8,766
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

De Anza College

  • Cupertino, CA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

De Anza College stands out for its exceptional programs. Learners attending the public institution choose from in-person classes on the Cupertino, California, campus or online classes. The school's programs include 2% that provide distance learning enrollment.

Enrollees can choose the learning format that best fits their needs and schedule. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to customize their program based on unique interests and career goals. Career resources include workshops, resume feedback, mock interviews, and job fairs. Bachelor's degree-seekers hold a 65% graduation rate.

Prospective students can explore their eligibility for funding opportunities to help offset degree costs. According to the most recent data, 47% of learners use financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,395
Out-of-state
$9,360
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
18,669
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
No

#16 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Marion Military Institute

  • Marion, AL
  • 2 years
  • Campus

The flexible programs at Marion Military Institute offer a variety of options for degree-seekers. The public institution welcomes learners to its Marion, Alabama, campus while also offering online programs.

In both modalities, enrollees participate in rigorous but supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers work with faculty members and academic advisors to customize the degree based on their personal and professional goals. Learners prepare for the job market through mock interviews, career workshops, and job fairs. The school reports a 30% graduation rate for its undergraduate programs.

The financial aid office helps prospective students identify funding opportunities to cover degree costs. Currently, 98% of enrollees use financial aid to pay for school.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,000
Out-of-state
$12,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
40%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
409
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#17 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

CUNY Kingsborough Community College

  • Brooklyn, NY
  • 2 years
  • Campus

The flexible programs at CUNY Kingsborough Community College appeal to learners from all walks of life. The public institution welcomes degree-seekers to its Brooklyn, New York, campus while also offering online programs.

Enrollees can choose the format that matches their learning style and schedule. Faculty mentors and academic advisors work with degree-seekers to create an individualized course of study. CUNY Kingsborough Community College offers strong career-planning resources, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. A leader in student success, the school reports a graduation rate of 34%.

Prospective students may be eligible for internal and external funding opportunities to pay for their degree. Today, 84% of the student body receives financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,800
Out-of-state
$7,680
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
15,443
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
9% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#18 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Western Wyoming Community College

  • Rock Springs, WY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus
Western Wyoming Community College appeals to students with a variety of needs. The public institution provides both on-campus and online programs from its Rock Springs campus. The school's programs include 25% which offer an online option.

In both modalities, enrollees participate in rigorous but supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers can work with faculty members and their academic advisor to customize their degree path to suit their personal and professional goals. Western Wyoming Community College offers career services like job fairs and workshops to help learners reach their professional goals. A leader in student success, the college boasts a 35% graduation rate.

Prospective students connect with the financial aid office to learn more about internal and external funding opportunities. Currently, 96% receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,970
Out-of-state
$8,910
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
58%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,821
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

North Iowa Area Community College

  • Mason City, IA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

North Iowa Area Community College offers a flexible route to a college degree. The public institution enrolls learners online and on its Mason City campus. The school's programs include 2% that provide distance learning enrollment.

Enrollees can choose the learning format that best fits their needs and schedule. The programs provide customization options such as electives and concentrations so degree-seekers can meet their personal and professional goals. Career resources include workshops, resume feedback, mock interviews, and job fairs. Bachelor's degree-seekers can expect a graduation rate of 47%.

Prospective applicants can contact the financial aid office to learn about their eligibility for funding. Out of the total student body, 91% receive financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,793
Out-of-state
$7,189
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
66%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,894
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
73% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#20 Best Community Colleges in the U.S.

Northeast Alabama Community College

  • Rainsville, AL
  • 2 years
  • Campus

Northeast Alabama Community College stands out for its commitment to higher education. Located in Rainsville, the public institution offers both in-person and online programs.

In both modalities, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework and supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to design an individualized course of study based on transfer credits, interests, and career goals. Learners prepare for the job market with resources like resume reviews, career workshops, and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can expect a 46% graduation rate.

Prospective students work with financial aid advisors to identify scholarship and grant opportunities. Out of the total student body, 93% receive a financial aid award.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,930
Out-of-state
$7,860
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,981
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How to Choose a Community College

There are several factors you should consider when choosing a community college, including accreditation, program offerings, location, and credit transfer agreements. This process should narrow down your options to a manageable few.

Check for Accreditation

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) charters accreditation agencies, such as the Higher Learning Commission, to evaluate postsecondary schools nationwide. Accredited schools offer you a rigorous education you can use to start a job or enroll in a program at a four-year college.

Do not apply to nonaccredited schools, as many jobs and accredited colleges do not consider their degrees valid. This could lead to difficulties acquiring financial aid or challenges in transferring later. You can check the ED's database to see if your prospective school is accredited.

Academic Program Offerings

Pay close attention to program offerings, as some community colleges focus on a specific academic or career field. A school with many programs lets you explore different subjects while paying an affordable tuition rate.

The best community colleges help you make the most of your academic experience with highly trained academic and career advisors. Their guidance will support your career development and help you select the best courses for your major and career path.

Location

You may find the most affordable community college within a few miles of your home. At some community colleges, people living within the district or county pay the lowest tuition rate. Schools may charge other in-state and out-of-state learners much more.

Advances in online education mean you can explore community colleges outside your county or state. Learning online features many potential benefits, such as asynchronous education and reduced fees. However, every learner is different, and some students perform better in person vs. online, while others excel remotely. Be sure to know your needs before selecting your mode of learning.

Credit Transfer Agreements

The best community colleges prepare you to transfer to a bachelor's-completion program at a four-year school. Your community college may advertise transfer agreements with in-state public colleges and universities. These agreements ensure all your credit transfers. Changing your major, however, could increase the time and amount you spend on your degree.

You can also transfer undergraduate credit to an online program if your community college and potential four-year colleges hold proper accreditation. However, keep in mind that you will need to maintain good academic standing to transfer successfully.

How Much Does Community College Cost?

Average Full-Time Cost Of Community College (2021-22)
Item Average Cost
Tuition and Required Fees $3,860
Room and Board $8,120
Books and Supplies $1,440
Other Expenses (e.g., Transportation, Laundry, Furnishings, etc.) $4,340
Total $17,760
Source: NCES

The typical community college student paid nearly $4,000 in tuition and fees during the 2021-2022 academic year. However, tuition made up only a fraction of the total cost of attendance (COA). You should also expect to pay for books, supplies, and other education-related expenses.

You need to calculate community colleges' COA, even if they charge lower tuition than comparable four-year schools. Doing so helps you decide whether living on or off campus best minimizes your out-of-pocket costs.

Average Total Cost: Living On-Campus vs. Off-Campus
Location Average Cost
On-Campus $16,780
Off-Campus (Living With Family) $10,360
Off-Campus (Not Living With Family) $20,580
Source: NCES
Featured Online Associate Programs

Benefits of Community College

Attending community college can help you in many ways during and after your education. Make sure to work with academic and career counselors to make the most of your time in school.

Cost-Effective

Attending a community college for two years and then transferring to a four-year school can significantly reduce your college COA. Lower tuition and fees for two years reduce your debt burden compared to those who began their college education at a four-year school.

If you choose to transfer to a four-year school, this advantage can set you up for greater financial success long after graduation.

Increase Your Earning Potential

A Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report shows that professionals with an associate degree earn about 15% more weekly than their peers with only a high school or GED diploma. Making more lets you pay down student debt faster and achieve a higher quality of life.

Enrolling in a bachelor's-completion program features even more financial benefits. The BLS reports that workers with a bachelor's make about 80% more weekly than those with a high school or GED diploma.

Ability to Transfer Credits

Many community colleges maintain partnerships with in-state colleges to help you transfer your undergraduate credit toward a bachelor's-completion program.

This benefit lets you rest easy knowing you won't need to retake and pay for the same classes once you enroll in a four-year college.

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Community College

Don't think that attending a community college limits your financial aid options. You can use federal student loans to pay for your community college education. The FAFSA application calculates your annual student aid index, a figure the government uses to identify your financial need.

The official FAFSA website discusses what you'll need to submit the form every year you're in school. Research college scholarships if you need more financial aid to pay for an associate degree. Scholarship application deadlines and requirements vary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Community Colleges

Is community college free?

There are many states that offer grants and financial aid to cover the cost of community college, including California, Georgia, Maryland, Nevada, and Virginia. However, there are certain requirements you must meet in order to be considered eligible, such as your income, field of study, age, and immigration status.

Other requirements include holding state residency and a high school or GED diploma. You may also need to meet a GPA cutoff. Speak with a college admissions counselor to see if you qualify.

Can you get a bachelor's degree at a community college?

Community colleges within the 23-state Community College Baccalaureate Association (CCBA) award bachelor's degrees. In CCBA member states like Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, all community colleges offer at least one bachelor's program.

Member states such as California, Idaho, and Utah only offer bachelor's degrees at some community colleges.

Do community colleges have dorms?

Top community colleges that strive to provide a full college experience may offer on-campus housing. However, most community colleges do not offer housing. Some community colleges may also offer housing at nearby partner institutions.

Do community colleges accept everyone?

In many cases, yes. Most community colleges offer open admission, which means anyone with a high school diploma or GED certificate can enroll in classes. The best community colleges accommodate any student who wants to earn a degree.

Page last reviewed October 6, 2023. All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the TBS Rankings Team.

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