Best Community Colleges in Houston: Admission Requirements, Transfer Options, and Online Degrees

If you’re looking to further your education, community college can be a great option as it provides high-quality college education and affordable tuition. However, finding the right community college can be difficult. It’s worth taking the time to compare different schools to find the right fit for you.

This article compares the best community colleges in Houston and also looks at the best online community colleges in Houston. We provide information about the admissions policies, tuition fees, financial aid options, and transfer programs available at each institution. Lastly, we’ll look at job opportunities for graduates of community colleges in Houston.

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How Many Community Colleges Are in Houston?

There are eight community colleges within a 50 miles radius of Houston. However, not all of these public community colleges offer the same programs or services. It’s important to research each college carefully before making a decision.

What Is the Biggest Community College in Houston?

The biggest community college in Houston is Lone Star College System. This institution has an enrollment of over 70,109 students and 909 full-time faculty members. It offers students a wide range of academic programs and services.

What Are the Best Community Colleges in Houston?

Ranking	Community College	Graduation Rate	Student-to-Faculty Ratio
1	Lee College	44%	15:1
2	Brazosport College	41%	12:1
3	San Jacinto College	32%	23:1
4	College of the Mainland	28%	16:1
5	Alvin Community College	24%	12:1

The Best Community Colleges in Houston: Explained

Since there are a variety of community colleges in Houston, it can hard to try to figure out how they compare to each other. There are many factors to take into consideration, including acceptance rates, tuition costs, academic programs, and overall quality of student life. In the next section, we list the best community colleges in Houston looking specifically at graduation rates, tuition, financial aid, and student-to-faculty ratio.

Lee College | Grad Rate: 48%

Lee College was founded in 1934. It’s located in Baytown Texas and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It offers over 100 two-year associate degrees, as well as certificate programs in fields like instrumentation technology and accounting.

Lee College Overview

Tuition: $230/credit hour (in-district); $301.50/credit hour (out-of-district); $319/credit hour (non-resident)
Student Population: 7,487
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 59%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Lee College Programs

Associate of Applied Science in Business Management. This business management program can help prepare you for a career in business. With coursework in accounting, marketing, management, and more, you'll learn the skills you need to succeed in the business world.
Associate of Arts in Social Sciences. Students in the Associate of Arts in Social Sciences program at Lee College will gain a basic understanding of society through the study of history, sociology, psychology, and other social sciences. This knowledge will help prepare them for careers in areas like social work, government, or education.
Certificate of Completion in Instrumentation Technology. This one-year certificate program puts students on a career pathway to become technicians who install, maintain, and repair electronic equipment used in industrial settings.
Associate of Science in Environmental Science. The Associate of Science in Environmental Science is a two-year program that prepares students for careers in environmental science and related fields.
Associate of Science in Nursing. The Lee College Associate Degree in Nursing is a two-year program that provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to become registered nurses.

Brazosport College | Grad Rate: 28%

Brazosport College is a beautiful college with a campus that spans 156 acres. It was established in 1968 and offers certificate programs and associate degrees. The college also offers four-year bachelor’s degree programs. Brazosport College has been ranked among the top 10 best and most affordable colleges by the Aspen Institute.

Brazosport College Overview

Tuition: $90.50/credit hour (in-district); $124.50/credit hour (out-of-district); $225.50/credit hour (non-resident)
Student Population: 3,852
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 52%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Brazosport College Programs

Associate of Applied Science in Chemical Technology. The 60-credit-hour chemical technology associate degree program at Brazosport College gives students the know-how they need to get jobs in fields like analytical services, environmental services, and research.
Advanced Certificate in Construction Management. This academic program in construction management requires the completion of 33 credits, which can all be taken in as little as one year. Employment opportunities for construction management graduates are excellent as the job openings outnumber qualified candidates.
Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development and Education. This program is designed to give students the skills and knowledge they need to work with children. The curriculum includes courses in child growth and development, child psychology, and child guidance.
Associate of Arts in Communications. The Associate of Arts in Communication is a 60-credit-hour degree and academic transfer program. It gives students foundational knowledge in communications and prepares them to transfer to a bachelor’s program at a public college or university in Texas.
Associate of Arts in Psychology. Brazosport College's Associate of Arts in Psychology program provides students with a solid foundation in major psychological theories, research methods, and practices. This program also has a transfer option that allows students to complete their degrees at public four-year colleges or universities in Texas.

San Jacinto College | Grad Rate: 27%

San Jacinto College is one of the top five community colleges in the nation and offers 80 programs in eight areas of study, such as business, healthcare, and engineering. The college was founded in 1961 and now has five campuses and over 31,000 students. The main campus is located in Pasadena, Texas, about 20 miles from downtown Houston.

San Jacinto College Overview

Tuition: $78/credit hour (in-district); $135/credit hour (out-of-district); $210/credit (non-resident)
Student Population: 31,110
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 57%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best San Jacinto College Programs

Associate of Applied Science in Accounting. San Jacinto College offers an Associate of Applied Sciences in Accounting. This two-year program covers topics like principles of managerial accounting, business tax accounting, and computerized accounting applications.
Certificate in Air Conditioning Technology (HVAC). A Certificate in Air Conditioning Technology is a good choice for those who are looking for technical education to help them pursue work in the HVAC field. This certificate requires 36 credits and can be completed in one year. The HVAC field offers excellent wage potential and always has opportunities for employment.
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Radiography. Are you looking for a job with excellent employment prospects and high salary potential? If so, this 64-credit medical radiography associate program may be the right way to begin your radiography career. Keep in mind that admission to this program can be competitive.
Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Cyber Security. If you're a computer geek, the two-year Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Cyber Security program from San Jacinto College might be a strong choice for you. This degree can help make you eligible for jobs in IT and at tech companies, businesses, and organizations.
Associate of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences. San Jacinto College's Associate of Arts in Social and Behavioral Science gives you a broad understanding of the social and behavioral sciences, preparing you for success in a variety of fields. With the transfer option, you can easily transfer college credits to a four-year institution in Texas.

College of the Mainland | Grad Rate: 28%

Graduates of College of the Mainland have been known to secure the highest starting salary jobs in Texas. Founded in 1966, this is one of the most respected community colleges in the state with an excellent learning environment. With 14 departments, the college offers members of the student body plenty of room to explore and grow.

College of the Mainland Overview

Tuition: $1,773/semester (in-district); $2,973/semester (out-of-district); $3,873/semester (out-of-state)
Student Population: 4,335
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 65%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best College of the Mainland Programs

Certificate in Graphic Design. The College of the Mainland Graphic Design Certificate program provides students with a solid understanding of graphic design. Coursework covers topics such as the principles of design, typography, and color theory. The certificate program requires 27 credit hours for completion.
Associate of Science in Mathematics. This two-year Associate of Science in Mathematics degree is designed to prepare students for careers in engineering, mathematics, science, education, and statistics. Coursework includes calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, and physics.
Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. The two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing from The College of the Mainland is intended to prepare students for careers in nursing. The program has two tracks, one for students who are unlicensed and one for those who are licensed vocational nurses who want to become registered nurses.
Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health Technology. The Occupational Safety and Health Technology program is a one-year certificate program. The program requires the completion of 34 credit hours, with courses like Safety and Health, Fire Protection Systems, and Environmental Regulations Overview.
Associate of Arts in Business. Earning an Associate of Arts in Business from the College of the Mainland is a great way to start your career in business. With this degree, you can open doors to many careers including accounting, banking, and marketing.

Alvin Community College | Grad Rate: 30%

Alvin Community College is spread over 114 acres in Alvin, Texas. This public college offers certificate and associate degree programs and has a total enrollment of 5,737 students. Founded in 1948, the college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Alvin Community College Overview

Tuition: $259/credit hour (in-district); $306/credit hour (out-of-district); $355/credit hour (non-resident)
Student Population: 5,737
Percent Receiving Financial Aid: 58%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Minimum GPA Requirement: N/A

Best Alvin Community College Programs

Associate of Science in Health Science. The Alvin Community College Associate of Science in Health Science program is a two-year, 60-credit program with courses in nutrition and diet therapy, anatomy and physiology, and life span growth and development.
Associate of Arts in History. If you're interested in learning about different cultures and civilizations, then a history associate degree may be the right choice for you. This program will teach you about world geography, US history, Mexican American history, and world civilizations. The program is 60 credit hours that can be completed in two years.
Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology. Alvin Community College offers an Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology. This degree can lead to a career as an application programmer, computer network technician, or help desk clerk. The program takes two years to complete.
Associate of Applied Science in Process Technology. If you're a math whiz and a good problem solver, then this 60-credit Associate of Applied Science in Process Technology could be the right program for you. You'll learn about process technology, instrumentation, and process troubleshooting.
Associate of Arts in General Studies. The Associate of Arts in General Studies is designed for students who want to study a broad range of subjects. The curriculum includes courses in communication, creative arts, social and behavioral sciences, and other liberal arts disciplines.

Best Online Community Colleges in Houston

San Jacinto College. San Jacinto College’s online program is very flexible. Students can take classes at their own pace or according to the schedule set by the college. There is also a hybrid option that combines online and on-campus learning.
Lone Star College. Lone Star College’s online program is one of the best in Texas. The college offers online certificates and associate degrees in many subjects. The online class sizes are small, allowing you to get individual attention.
Brazosport College. Brazosport College has a virtual campus where you can access online courses, resources, and live support. There is also a learning management system where you can see the syllabus and submit assignments and quizzes. Students can choose from many subjects that are offered online.

Best Online Associate Degrees

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Other Houston Community College Rankings

Many community colleges have programs that allow community college students to transfer to four-year universities. These programs are a strong option if you want to save money on an undergraduate degree. In the next section, we’ll outline some Houston community colleges that are known for their academic transfer programs.

Best Community Colleges in Houston for Transfer

Brazosport College. The Brazosport College has agreements with almost all Texas public four-year colleges and universities, including University of Houston, Texas State University, and Lamar University. This makes it easier for students to transfer credits and complete their degrees.
San Jacinto College. The San Jacinto College provides a variety of possibilities for students seeking to transfer to four-year institutions. They have agreements with many universities including Texas A&M University, University of Houston, and Franklin University that guarantee admission to the students who meet certain criteria.
Lee College. Lee College students have the option to transfer to almost any four-year university in Texas after completing their associate degree. This can be done through the school’s transfer program, which helps students transition to a four-year school.

Best Community Colleges for Business Management in Houston

College of the Mainland. College of the Mainland’s business management program has a good reputation. The curriculum was created to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the business world. The faculty is experienced and dedicated to helping students succeed.
Lee College. Business management is one of the most popular programs at Lee College. The aim of this business management program is to develop students’ ability to think strategically, manage change, and lead others in a dynamic business environment.
Alvin Community College. There are many reasons to consider Alvin Community College for a business management degree. The school offers a certificate and an Associate of Applied Science in Business Management. Transfer to a four-year university is also available through the business management program.

Best Houston Community Colleges That Offer Bachelor’s Degrees

Brazosport College. Brazosport College offers two bachelor’s degrees. One is in health service management and the other in industrial management. The industrial management degree is offered in five specialties. The Bachelor of Applied Technology programs at Brazosport College are for people who want to advance their careers and improve their chances of promotion.
San Jacinto College. San Jacinto College offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). BSN nurses are more likely to get promoted and have greater career prospects, professional credibility, and higher income.
Lone Star College. Lone Star College offers Bachelor’s Degrees in Cyber Security, Nursing, and Energy, Manufacturing and Trades Management. All these three bachelor’s degrees are career-focused and designed to help students meet the demands of today’s workforce.

Best Associate Degrees

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Best Community College Programs in Houston

Three students stand in a doorway dressed in graduation regalia with their backs to the camera — The quality of education at community colleges provides excellent and lifelong learning opportunities for students looking to get ahead.

There are many community colleges in Houston, all of which have many different degree programs. Because there are so many college majors, it can be hard to know where to begin when selecting the right academic program for you. The best community college programs in Houston include but are not limited to business management, nursing, communications, process technology, computer information technology, instrumentation, cyber security, sociology, and social sciences.

Business Management

There are many ways to study business management at one of the best community colleges in Houston. Business programs exist at both certificate and associate degree levels. Many colleges offer business management programs with concentrations in areas like accounting or marketing.

Nursing

If you’re interested in studying nursing at one of the many community colleges in Houston, there are a few different types of programs available. You can pursue a certificate or associate degree program to become a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) or registered nurse (RN). Almost all Houston community colleges offer programs in nursing.

Process Technology

Process technology is the technology that is used to manufacture materials. In a process technology program, you’ll learn how to manage and control industrial processes. Many community colleges and technical schools offer certificate and associate degree programs in process technology.

Computer Information Technology

Computer information technology (CIT) programs can be found at many community colleges in Houston. These programs offer certificates, associate degrees, and sometimes even bachelor’s degrees in CIT. Many of these courses are intended to help students prepare for industry certification tests, such as the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam.

Communications

There are many communications programs at different Houston community colleges at both the certificate and associate degree levels. Many colleges offer these programs online or in hybrid formats, giving students the flexibility to complete their studies at their own pace. Popular degrees in fields related to communications include strategic communication, journalism, and public relations.

Houston Community Colleges Admission Requirements

Houston community colleges’ admission requirements depend on the institution. However, there are similarities across the board. Common admission requirements include a completed application form, an official high school transcript, GED scores, proof of residency in Texas, and proof of vaccination against certain diseases.

Houston Community College GPA Requirements

There are no GPA requirements for enrolling in Houston community colleges since they are designed to provide an easy route to higher education.

Residency Requirements for Community Colleges in Houston

The vast majority of Houston community colleges use the same definition of residency. In order to be considered a resident, a student must have resided in Texas for at least 12 to 36 months before enrolling in classes. Out-of-district and international students pay a higher fee than in-district students.

Houston Community College Age Requirements

To attend most community colleges in Houston, you have to be at least 18 years old. However, at some colleges, students who are less than 18 can also be admitted. Students who are under 18 must provide extra documentation like a recommendation letter from a counselor or designee that certifies their maturity, a parental consent form, and a student acknowledgment form.

Houston Community College Admission Requirements: A Summary

Application form
High school transcripts or GED scores
Government-issued ID
Proof of residence
Proof of vaccination

Why Study in Houston?

You should study in Houston because it is a great city with a lot to offer. This Texas city is known for affordable schools, colleges, and universities. It’s also a great place to live and work. The city has a low cost of living and is a great place to find a job.

Affordable Education

Houston has some of the most affordable community colleges in the US. Other educational institutions also have very affordable tuition. You can save money by attending a community college for your first two years and then transferring to a university.

Cost of Living

Houston is a relatively affordable city to live in. The cost of living is lower than the national average. You can find apartments and houses for rent at reasonable prices, making it a great place to raise a family.

Healthcare Facilities

Houston has some of the best healthcare facilities in the US. The world-renowned Texas Medical Center is located in Houston. In total, Houston is home to 180 hospitals, 680 nursing and residential care facilities, 13,000 ambulatory health care providers, and 6,000 social assistance establishments.

Houston Employment Outlook for Community College Students

Houston is a great place to find employment. The average hourly wage for workers in the city is $26.90, and there are plenty of opportunities in management, business and financial operation, and healthcare. If you’re looking for great employment opportunities, be sure to check out Houston.

5 In-Demand Houston Jobs

We’re going to take a closer look at just a few of the career choices that might be open to you with a degree from one of the best community colleges in Houston. With a strong job market, there are plenty of in-demand jobs to choose from. These jobs include operations manager, computer systems analyst, chemical engineer, social scientist, registered nurse, and occupational health and safety specialist.

Chemical Engineer | Average Salary: $173,640

Chemical engineers design, develop, and oversee the processes that turn raw materials into useful products. They are also responsible for the smooth operation of the industrial production process. A community college graduate would need to continue their education and obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering or Process Engineering to pursue this career path.

Average Salary in Houston: $173,640
Employment in Houston: 3,890
Overall Job Growth: 9%
Best Houston Community College Program: Associate of Applied Science in Chemical Technology at Brazosport College

Computer Systems Analyst | Average Salary: $116,770

As a computer systems analyst, you’ll be responsible for ensuring that an organization's computer system meets its user's needs. Some community colleges offer two-year associate degree programs in computer science, which can prepare you for a job as a computer systems analyst. However, most employers prefer candidates who have a Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or Engineering, or a related field.

Average Salary in Houston: $116,770
Employment in Houston: 12,850
Overall Job Growth: 7%
Best Houston Community College Program: Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology at Alvin Community College

Operations Manager | Average Salary: $114,780

An operations manager is responsible for developing and monitoring an operational budget. To work in this field, a community college graduate would need to continue their education by obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration or a related field. They would also need to complete an internship in an operational role to gain experience.

Average Salary in Houston: $114,780
Employment in Houston: 78,630
Overall Job Growth: 9%
Best Houston Community College Program: Associate of Applied Science in Business Management at Lee College

Registered Nurse | Average Salary: $83,890

Registered nurses provide essential care for patients at all levels of the healthcare system. They work alongside the surgical teams as assistants, administer medication, advocate for patients, and so much more. Community college graduates would need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a nurse.

Average Salary in Houston: $83,890
Employment in Houston: 54,540
Overall Job Growth: 9%
Best Houston Community College Program: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing at College of the Mainland

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist | Average Salary: $81,640

An occupational health and safety specialist is responsible for ensuring the safety of employees in the workplace. To become an occupational health and safety specialist, a community college graduate could continue their education by completing a Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Safety and Health, Engineering, or a related field. Alternatively, they could complete an advanced certificate program in occupational safety and health.

Average Salary in Houston: $81,640
Employment in Houston: 5,160
Overall Job Growth: 7%
Best Houston Community College Program: Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health Technology at College of the Mainland

What Community Colleges in Houston Have Dorms?

Galveston College is a community college in Houston that has dorms. Some of the pros of living on campus at a community college include having easy access to classes and campus resources, meeting new people, and having the full college experience. Some of the cons of living on campus at a community college include the cost of living on campus and the lack of privacy and independence that comes with living in a dorm.

Houston Community Colleges With Dorms

Galveston College

What Community Colleges Offer Winter Intersession in Houston?

Brazosport College, Houston Community College, and Lone Star College are community colleges in Houston that offer winter intersession courses. A winter intersession is a break between the fall and spring semesters. This break usually allows students to take a break from their studies. Attending a school with a winter intersession can be beneficial for students who want to get ahead in their studies or catch up on credits.

Houston Community Colleges With Winter Intersession

Brazosport College
Houston Community College
Lone Star College

What Community Colleges in Houston Have Summer Classes?

Lee College, Alvin Community College, Brazosport College, San Jacinto College, Lone Star Colege, and Houston Community College are the community colleges in Houston that have summer classes. Some students may want to attend a school with summer classes to get ahead in their studies or to lighten their workload during the regular school year. These schools all offer a wide variety of classes during the summer to help you meet your educational goals.

Houston Community Colleges With Summer Classes

Lee College
Alvin Community College
Brazosport College
San Jacinto College
Lone Star College

How to Apply to a Community College in Houston

You apply to a community college in Houston by filling out an online application. The next steps of the application process include submitting high school transcripts and GED scores, applying for financial aid, and completing placement testing. As previously mentioned, to apply to some schools, you may also have to provide documentation of certain vaccinations.

Houston Community College Application Steps

Fill out online application form
Submit high school transcripts and GED scores
Apply for financial aid
Complete placement testing
Provide any necessary vaccination documentation

Cost of Community Colleges in Houston

Generally, the cost of community colleges in Houston is quite low, especially compared to the overall cost of higher education in the United States. Costs range from $78 per credit hour to $300 per credit hour for in-district and out-of-district students. For out-of-state or international students, the tuition and fee costs range from $200 per credit hour to $350 per credit hour.

Are Community Colleges Ever Free in Houston?

Community colleges are not free in Houston. However, most colleges offer free tuition and scholarship programs for eligible students. College of the Mainland offers the Opening Doors Promise Scholarship which covers the full cost of tuition. Similarly, Houston Community College offers the Eagle Promise Program which covers full tuition and also provides an allowance of up to $500 per semester to cover the cost of textbooks.

Scholarships for Community Colleges in Houston

If you’re looking for scholarships for community colleges in Houston, we’ve got some good news for you. There are plenty of scholarships available to students who attend community colleges in Houston. Below, we are going to discuss some of the best scholarships and how to apply to them.

How to Get a Scholarship for Community Colleges in Houston

First, contact financial aid offices to get the most accurate and up-to-date information about available scholarship opportunities.
You can also search look at the community college website or state government website for information on scholarships, grants, and loans.
After selecting suitable scholarships, check the eligibility criteria.
Apply for scholarships you’re eligible for. Most scholarship applications require you to apply through FAFSA.
Double check that you’ve submitted all documents and forms as required.

Houston Community Colleges Scholarships List

Lee College Foundation Scholarship | Amount: Varies. The Lee College Foundation Scholarship is available to students at Lee College enrolled in any program. The scholarship is applied to the cost of tuition and the cost of textbooks.
Opening Doors Promise Scholarship | Amount: Full cost of tuition and fees. The Opening Doors Promise Scholarship is a last-dollar scholarship that provides free tuition for students at College of the Mainland. To be eligible you must be graduating from high school or, if you’re between 17 and 19, getting your GED. You must also apply to college for the first time and enroll for full-time study. To maintain your scholarship after your first year, you must maintain at least a 2.0 GPA.
Eagle Promise Scholarship | Amount: Full cost of tuition and fees. The Eagle Promise Scholarship is offered by Houston Community College. It covers full tuition and fees and a $500 grant for books and supplies every semester. Students who receive this scholarship also have access to financial coaches and perks like priority registration beginning in their second semester of attendance.

Other Houston Community College Financial Aid Options

If you’re not eligible for as many scholarships as you would like or if you’re looking for other ways to pay for a community college in Houston, there are a variety of other options. Houston community college financial aid options include state and private scholarships, federal grants, and loans. There are also many scholarships offered by private organizations.

Federal Grants

A federal grant is money from the federal government applied to education. Grants are need-based and don’t need to be repaid. Some federal grants include the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG).

Texas Grants

A state grant is a type of financial aid that is awarded by the state government to eligible college students. Grants can be need-based or merit-based. Some of the Texas state grants include Texas Public Educational Grant (TPEG), Texas Educational Opportunity Grant (TEOG), Texas Reskilling Grant Program, and Texas Grant Renewal.

Student Loans

A student loan is a type of loan that is offered to students by the government or private lenders to help pay for their education. Students have to repay the loan with interest in installments after they complete their education. Some common student loans are the Federal Perkins Loan, the Federal Direct Stafford Loan, and the Federal Direct PLUS Loan.

Texas College Work-Study Program (TCWSP)

The Texas College Work-Study Program (TCWSP) was created by the Texas Legislature in 2015. It provides employment opportunities for Texas college students who are struggling to pay for their education. The program offers eligible students the chance to earn money while attending school and provides employers with skilled and motivated workers.

Texas Tuition and/or Fee Exemption

The Texas tuition and/or fee exemption financial aid option allows some Texans to attend a public institution in Texas without paying tuition and/or fees. There are many different ways to qualify for a tuition and/or fee exemption in Texas. A few ways include being the highest-ranking graduate at your high school, being the child of professional nursing program faculty or staff member, or being a firefighter enrolled in a fire science course.

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant Program (TEACH)

The TEACH Grant awards up to $4,000 per year per to eligible college and university students who intend to pursue careers in teaching. To receive the grant, students must agree to serve as full-time teachers in an elementary or secondary school that serves low-income students, for at least four years after graduation. If they do not fulfill this requirement, the grant will be converted to a loan, which they must repay.

The Best Financial Aid for Your Situation

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What Are the Financial Aid Requirements for Community Colleges in Houston?

The financial aid requirements for community colleges in Houston are the same as for any other type of college. You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form in order to be eligible for federal aid. You must also meet the eligibility requirements for the specific type of aid you are applying for.

Houston Financial Aid Requirements: Overview

Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Show family income statement and assets for need-based scholarships
Provide proof of Residency in Texas
Submit any other documents required for specific scholarships

Should You Attend Community College in Houston?

Yes, you should attend community college in Houston. Perhaps you’re looking for more affordable education, or maybe you want to be closer to home. Whatever your reasons, there are plenty of great community colleges in Houston that offer quality education, affordable tuition, and lots of opportunities for professional development.

Houston Community College Rankings: Methodology

Our ranking of Houston community colleges is based mainly on the graduation rate. If graduation rate statistics were not available, we used data on student-to-faculty ratios to rank the remaining schools. These figures, sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), best reflect a student’s chances of getting the education and help they need to succeed.

Best Accelerated Degrees

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Best Houston Community Colleges FAQ

How are Houston community colleges funded?

Houston community colleges are funded primarily by student tuition and fees. They are also funded by the state and federal governments. Many community colleges in Houston get donations to help fund their operations.

What are community colleges in Houston best known for?

Community colleges in Houston are best known for their affordability, flexibility, and convenience. Many community colleges offer classes online, which makes them a great option for working students or busy adults. Numerous financial aid opportunities are available for the residents of Houston.

Which is the cheapest community college in Houston?

The cheapest community college in Houston for in-district and non-resident students is San Jacinto College with tuition at $78 per credit hour and $210 per hour credit respectively. For out-of-district students from Texas, Brazosport College is the cheapest option with tuition at $124.50 per credit hour.

What is the difference between Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees?

The main difference between an AA, AS, and AAS is in the curriculum. An associate of arts degree typically has a more liberal arts-focused curriculum, while an associate of science degree is focused on math and science. An associate of applied science degree is designed to provide students with relevant, career-focused education.

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