Your Dreams Are In Your Hands!
Finding a place that supports your long-term success, professional aspirations, and personal development is more important than merely comparing tuition prices or program listings when selecting a college. Houston Community College might be the best option for you if you're searching for an education that is flexible, reasonably priced, and focused on the community.
Houston Community College, one of Texas's biggest and most welcoming community colleges, was established in 1971. Situated in the center of Houston, the college provides associate degrees, career-focused certificates, and transfer pathways for students who want to continue their education at four-year institutions. This guide covers everything, whether you're looking into Houston Community College admissions, have questions about HCC scholarships, or intend to enroll in one of its many career-focused programs. Consider this your comprehensive student guide to HCC, complete with information on tuition and campus resources.
Houston, Texas, a thriving and diverse metropolis renowned for its innovation hubs, cultural diversity, and employment prospects in various industries, is home to HCC. With several campuses spread across the greater Houston area—Central, West Loop, Northeast, Southeast, Stafford, and Alief campuses—the college provides convenience and flexibility to students who live all over the city.
To guarantee that students have access to resources regardless of where they are based, each campus has well-equipped classrooms, libraries, computer labs, and student lounges. Students can benefit from the college's supportive infrastructure, which is intended to foster both academic success and personal development, whether they choose to attend classes in person or online.
Houston Community College is the perfect starting point for both immediate career paths and higher education because it gives students the opportunity to network with major employers, secure internships, and experience a city that is known for its energy, technology, and healthcare.
HCC's strong position as one of the biggest and easiest-to-get-to community colleges in the US is reflected in its ranking. The college is well-known for its career-focused programs, academic support, and affordability. It is also frequently recognized for its dedication to workforce development, diversity, and student success.
Ranking Category | Source | Rank/Recognition |
|---|---|---|
Best Community Colleges in Texas | Niche | #6 in Texas |
Top 100 Associate Degree Producers | Community College Week | Top 10 Nationally |
Most Diverse Community Colleges | Niche | High Diversity Score |
Best Online Community Colleges | Intelligent.com | Recognized Institution |
Houston Community College's increasing influence on education and job readiness is highlighted by its ranking. HCC's reputation offers a strong academic foundation for students starting their careers or transferring to a four-year institution.
HCC offers a diverse range of associate degree programs, certificates, and workforce development programs suitable for a variety of students. HCC has more than 200 programs of study, including business, healthcare, technology, and the arts, that give the students the flexibility to enter the workforce right after graduation or transfer to a four-year institution.
The Houston Community College acceptance rate is 100% so it is a great option for students of all backgrounds who are ready to start or restart their academic journey.
Program Type | Sample Programs |
|---|---|
Associate of Arts (AA) | Business, Psychology, Communications |
Associate of Science (AS) | Biology, Engineering, Computer Science |
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) | Nursing, Cybersecurity, Culinary Arts |
Certificate Programs | Welding, Real Estate, Medical Assistant |
Continuing & Workforce Education | Project Management, Web Design, HVAC |
When combined with excellent Houston Community College programs, this open-access policy guarantees that students have the fundamental knowledge and career-specific skills they need to thrive in the modern workforce or in higher education.
The Houston Community College admissions process is made to be easy, accessible, and inclusive, regardless of your background—high school graduate figuring out what to do next, transfer student seeking a new beginning, or adult learner going back to school. Since HCC has a rolling admissions policy, you can apply whenever you're ready to dedicate yourself to your academic or professional objectives. HCC's 100% acceptance rate highlights the school's goal of providing educational opportunities to everyone, irrespective of background or academic record.
Eligibility Criteria and Required Documents
High school diploma, GED, or recognized equivalent
No minimum GPA required, but some programs may have prerequisites
Completed application through the ApplyTexas platform
Proof of Texas residency (for in-state tuition consideration)
Meningitis vaccination documentation (for students under 22)
Placement test scores (such as TSI Assessment) unless exempt
Completed HCC International Student Application
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test)
Affidavit of financial support and recent bank statement
Official transcripts evaluated by a NACES-accredited agency
Copy of passport and visa information
To make sure students are prepared for success right away, Houston Community College assists at every stage of the process, such as academic advising, financial aid counseling, and placement testing services.
HCC is still among the most reasonably priced universities in Texas, which makes it a great option for students who want to get a good education without taking on a lot of debt. All students, whether enrolled full-time, part-time, or online, can afford education thanks to HCC's generous aid offerings and flexible tuition rates.
HCC bases tuition on enrolled credit hours and residency status. For in-district students, the following is a rough estimate:
Program Type | Estimated Annual Tuition |
|---|---|
In-District (Full-Time) | $2,700–$3,500 |
Out-of-District | $4,300–$5,500 |
Out-of-State/International | $6,600–$7,800 |
Online Programs (Per Credit Hour) | $115–$200 |
Depending on the program and course load selected, additional expenses like books, lab fees, and materials may change.
HCC offers scholarships to both new and returning students in order to promote academic and financial accessibility. These consist of external, merit-based, and awards like amberscholar.
Scholarship Name | Amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
Chancellor’s Scholarship | Full Tuition | Exceptionally high school GPA and leadership involvement |
Eagle Promise Scholarship | Varies | For first-time college students with financial need |
Foundation Scholarships | $500–$2,500 | Based on academic merit, community service, or program |
Program-Specific Awards | Varies | Offered for fields like STEM, Nursing, and Business |
Most scholarships require a completed FAFSA and may involve additional steps such as essays or recommendation letters.
Every significant federal and state assistance program is open to HCC. Early FAFSA applications are advised for students to optimize their eligibility for:
Federal Pell Grants
Texas Public Education Grants
Federal Work-Study
Federal Direct Loans (Subsidized/Unsubsidized)
Parent PLUS Loans
HCC is still dedicated to lowering the cost of higher education, as more than 60% of its students receive financial aid of some kind.
Although Houston Community College does not have conventional on-campus residence halls, it does offer resources and support services to assist students in locating safe and reasonably priced housing options in the area. In order to find housing that fits their lifestyle and budget, many students take advantage of Houston's diverse neighborhoods.
Off-campus living gives students more freedom, flexible lease terms, and the chance to live in one of Texas's most energetic and reasonably priced cities. The Houston metro area offers a large selection of student-friendly lodging options.
Top-rated off-campus housing near Houston Community College include:
These off-campus options near the Houston Community College provide easy access to campus, contemporary amenities, and a setting that fosters academic and personal development.
Many people who went on to make important contributions in their fields owe their early careers to Houston Community College. Talent from a variety of industries has been shaped by the college's approachable and encouraging academic environment.
Among the notable Houston Community College alumni are:
Beyoncé Knowles – International recording artist and cultural icon (attended briefly before rising to fame)
Bryan Michael Cox – Grammy Award-winning songwriter and producer
Renée Zellweger – Academy Award-winning actress
Chamillionaire – Grammy-winning rapper and entrepreneur
These graduates support Houston Community College's standing as a launching pad for success by showcasing the wide range of potential fostered there, from the arts to entertainment and beyond.
Admission to the majority of programs typically requires a GPA of at least 2.0.
Yes, associate degree and certificate programs lasting two years are the main offerings of Houston Community College.
Depending on the number of courses taken, in-district tuition ranges from $2,000 to $2,500 per semester.
Indeed, HCC offers a variety of degree programs and courses that are entirely online.
No, Houston Community College has a high acceptance rate and an open admissions policy.