Last Updated: April 25, 2026
How to Apply at Austin Community College
Quick Answer: Austin Community College (ACC) is an open-admissions community college district serving the Austin, Texas area. Apply for free through ApplyTexas or the ACC website, complete placement testing, and register for classes — all within a few weeks.
About Austin Community College
Austin Community College (ACC) is a public community college district with multiple campuses across the greater Austin, Texas metropolitan area. Serving approximately 70,000 students each year, ACC is one of the largest institutions of higher education in Central Texas. The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and offers more than 100 associate degree and certificate programs. ACC is widely recognized for its strong transfer pathways to the University of Texas at Austin, Texas State University, and other four-year institutions in the region.
ACC operates 11 campuses strategically located throughout the Austin area, from Round Rock in the north to Hays County in the south. The college has earned a reputation for workforce development excellence, particularly in high-tech fields, healthcare, creative media, and skilled trades. Austin's booming economy and tech industry make ACC a popular starting point for students looking to enter the workforce quickly or transfer to a university.
How to Apply at Austin Community College
ACC maintains an open-admissions policy, so all applicants with a high school diploma or GED are accepted. The application is free, and the enrollment process can be completed in several straightforward steps.
Step 1: Submit Your Application
Apply online through ApplyTexas (www.applytexas.org) or the ACC admissions portal. You will provide personal information, educational history, and your intended area of study. The application is free and takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 2: Verify Texas Residency
ACC district residents (within the ACC taxing district) receive the lowest tuition rates. Provide a valid Texas ID, utility bills, or other residency documentation to verify your status. Check the ACC website for the current list of cities and areas within the district.
Step 3: Submit Transcripts and Test Scores
Send official high school transcripts or GED scores. If you have prior college credits, send those transcripts for transfer evaluation. Submit any available TSI, SAT, or ACT scores that may exempt you from the placement assessment.
Step 4: Complete Placement Testing
Most new students must complete the TSI (Texas Success Initiative) assessment to determine placement in math, reading, and writing courses. Exemptions are available for students with qualifying standardized test scores, military service, or prior college credit in relevant subjects.
Step 5: Attend Orientation and Advising
New students attend an orientation session — available online or in person — to learn about campus resources, student services, and academic expectations. Following orientation, meet with an academic advisor to select courses and build your first-semester schedule.
Step 6: Register and Pay for Classes
Register for classes through the ACC student portal. Pay tuition by the deadline using the portal's payment system, or set up an installment plan if needed. Financial aid awards are applied automatically to your account if processed before the deadline.
Available Programs and Tuition
ACC offers over 100 programs ranging from academic transfer degrees to workforce certificates. Tuition is among the most affordable in Texas, especially for students living within the ACC taxing district.
| Program | Tuition (Per Credit Hour) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Associate of Arts (Transfer) | $67 in-district | 2 years |
| Associate of Science (Transfer) | $67 in-district | 2 years |
| Registered Nursing (ADN) | $67 in-district | 2 years |
| Computer Programming (AAS) | $67 in-district | 2 years |
| Welding Technology (Certificate) | $67 in-district | 6 – 12 months |
| Radiologic Technology (AAS) | $67 in-district | 2 years |
| Cybersecurity (AAS) | $67 in-district | 2 years |
| Film & Creative Media (Certificate) | $67 in-district | 1 year |
Admission Requirements
ACC is an open-admissions institution. Any applicant who holds a high school diploma, GED, or is at least 18 years old may enroll in general academic courses. Competitive admission programs such as Nursing, Radiologic Technology, and Surgical Technology have additional requirements including prerequisite courses, minimum GPAs, and health screenings. High school students may enroll through the dual credit program with approval from their school and guardian. International students must provide proof of English proficiency, financial support, and valid immigration documents. All students are required to provide documentation of bacterial meningitis vaccination or an approved exemption.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
ACC participates in all major federal and state financial aid programs. Students should file the FAFSA to qualify for Pell Grants, federal loans, Texas grants, and work-study opportunities. The ACC Foundation awards over a million dollars in scholarships each year based on academic merit, financial need, and field of study. Students may also benefit from employer tuition reimbursement, military education benefits, and workforce development grants through Texas Workforce Solutions. ACC offers a tuition installment plan for students who prefer to pay in multiple payments throughout the semester. The college also provides emergency financial assistance for students facing unexpected hardships.
Student Life and Support Services
ACC campuses feature a wide range of student support services designed to promote academic success and personal well-being. Free tutoring is available at every campus through the ACC Learning Labs and Student Success Centers. Career counseling services help students explore career options, build resumes, and prepare for interviews. The college offers more than 100 student organizations, including honor societies, cultural groups, professional associations, and recreational clubs. Mental health counseling, disability services, and veteran support centers ensure all students have access to the help they need. ACC also operates food pantries and a student emergency fund for those facing financial difficulties. Transfer advising is available at every campus to help students transition smoothly to four-year universities. ACC also provides workforce development programs through its continuing education division, offering non-credit certifications in technology, healthcare, and business. The college's honors program gives academically ambitious students access to enhanced coursework, research opportunities, and priority transfer consideration at partner universities. ACC's commitment to sustainability and community engagement is reflected in its green campus initiatives and partnerships with local nonprofit organizations that provide service-learning opportunities for students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about applying to Austin Community College.
Is Austin Community College open admissions?
Yes. ACC accepts all applicants with a high school diploma or GED for general academic enrollment. Certain health sciences and competitive programs have additional admission requirements.
How much does ACC cost per semester?
In-district students pay approximately $67 per credit hour. A full-time semester of 12 credit hours costs roughly $804 before fees. Out-of-district and out-of-state rates are higher.
Can I transfer from ACC to the University of Texas at Austin?
Yes. ACC has a formal transfer agreement with UT Austin through programs like the Assured Admission program and the ACC-to-UT pathway. Meeting specific GPA and course requirements greatly increases your chances of admission to UT.
Does ACC offer online courses?
Yes. ACC offers a broad selection of online and hybrid courses. Some certificate and degree programs can be completed entirely online, while others require on-campus labs or clinical work.
What is the TSI requirement at ACC?
The TSI is a state-mandated assessment for math, reading, and writing. Most new students must take it unless they qualify for an exemption through prior test scores, military service, or college credit.
Does ACC offer financial aid?
Yes. ACC participates in federal and state financial aid programs. Students should complete the FAFSA. The ACC Foundation also awards over a million dollars in scholarships annually.
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