Last Updated: April 25, 2026
How to Apply at Lone Star College
Quick Answer: Lone Star College is an open-admissions community college system in the Houston, Texas metropolitan area. Apply online through ApplyTexas or the Lone Star College website at no cost, and most applicants receive acceptance within a few business days.
About Lone Star College
Lone Star College (LSC) is one of the largest community college systems in the United States, serving the greater Houston, Texas area. The system encompasses multiple campuses — including LSC-CyFair, LSC-Kingwood, LSC-Montgomery, LSC-North Harris, LSC-Tomball, and LSC-University Park — along with several satellite centers. With enrollment exceeding 90,000 students each semester, Lone Star College offers a comprehensive range of associate degrees, workforce certificates, and continuing education programs. The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Lone Star College is recognized for its strong transfer pathways to four-year universities including the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, and Sam Houston State University. The college also maintains robust workforce training partnerships with Houston-area employers in industries such as energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and information technology.
How to Apply at Lone Star College
Lone Star College maintains an open-admissions policy, meaning all applicants with a high school diploma or GED are accepted. The application process is free and can be completed online in about 20 minutes.
Step 1: Submit Your Application
Apply online through ApplyTexas (www.applytexas.org) or directly through the Lone Star College website. You will need to provide your personal information, educational history, and intended area of study. There is no application fee.
Step 2: Provide Proof of Residency
Texas residents receive lower tuition rates. Submit documents verifying your Texas residency, such as a driver's license, voter registration card, or utility bills. International students follow a separate admissions process with additional documentation requirements.
Step 3: Submit Transcripts and Test Scores
Send your official high school transcript or GED certificate, plus any college transcripts for transfer credit evaluation. If you have SAT, ACT, or TSI (Texas Success Initiative) scores, submit those as well. Students who do not have qualifying test scores will take the TSI assessment for placement purposes.
Step 4: Complete the TSI Assessment (If Required)
Texas law requires students to take the TSI assessment before enrolling in college-level courses unless they are exempt. Exemptions include qualifying SAT, ACT, or STAAR scores, as well as military service. The TSI helps place students in the appropriate level of math, reading, and writing courses.
Step 5: Meet with an Advisor and Register
Schedule an advising session to discuss your academic goals, review your placement results, and build your class schedule. Advisors help you choose courses that align with your degree plan or transfer goals. After advising, register for classes through the myLoneStar student portal.
Step 6: Pay Tuition and Fees
Pay your tuition by the posted deadline through the student portal. Payment plans are available, and financial aid can be applied directly to your balance. Confirm your enrollment by verifying your class schedule is finalized.
Available Programs and Tuition
Lone Star College offers over 100 degree and certificate programs spanning academic transfer pathways and workforce-ready credentials. Tuition rates are among the most affordable in Texas, with in-district students paying the lowest rates.
| Program | Tuition (Per Credit Hour) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Associate of Arts (Transfer) | $83 in-district | 2 years |
| Associate of Science (Transfer) | $83 in-district | 2 years |
| Registered Nursing (ADN) | $83 in-district | 2 years |
| Welding Technology (Certificate) | $83 in-district | 6 – 12 months |
| Cybersecurity (AAS) | $83 in-district | 2 years |
| HVAC Technology (Certificate) | $83 in-district | 1 year |
| Business Administration (AAS) | $83 in-district | 2 years |
| Emergency Medical Technology (Certificate) | $83 in-district | 1 year |
Admission Requirements
Lone Star College practices open admissions, so any student with a high school diploma, GED, or who is at least 18 years old can enroll. There is no minimum GPA requirement for general admission. Specific programs such as Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Veterinary Technology have competitive admissions with additional prerequisites including prerequisite coursework, minimum GPAs, and background checks. Dual credit high school students can also enroll with approval from their high school and parent or guardian consent. International students must provide additional documentation including proof of English proficiency and a valid visa.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Lone Star College participates in federal and state financial aid programs. Students should complete the FAFSA to be considered for Pell Grants, federal student loans, and Texas state grants. The LSC Foundation awards hundreds of scholarships each year to students based on merit, need, and community involvement. Many workforce programs qualify for additional funding through Texas Workforce Commission grants and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs. Lone Star College also offers an installment payment plan that allows students to spread tuition payments over the semester. Veterans and military-connected students can use GI Bill and military tuition assistance benefits.
Student Life and Support Services
Lone Star College provides a full range of student support services across all campuses. Tutoring centers offer free academic support in writing, math, science, and other subjects. Career services help students with job searches, resume building, and interview preparation. Each campus features a library, computer labs, and student gathering spaces. Student organizations, honor societies, and intramural activities offer opportunities for community involvement. Counseling services provide personal and academic support, and disability services ensure accommodations are available for students who need them. Transfer advising offices help students planning to continue their education at a four-year university. Lone Star College also provides workforce training through continuing education programs, which include short-term courses in high-demand fields such as truck driving, IT certifications, and healthcare aide training. The college's honors program offers enhanced academic opportunities for high-achieving students, including smaller class sizes, research projects, and priority registration. Several campuses feature maker spaces and advanced technology labs where students can gain hands-on experience with equipment used in their future careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to frequently asked questions about applying to and attending Lone Star College.
Is Lone Star College open admissions?
Yes. Lone Star College has an open-admissions policy, meaning any student with a high school diploma or GED is accepted for general enrollment. Some healthcare and technical programs have additional competitive admissions requirements.
How much does Lone Star College cost?
In-district students pay approximately $83 per credit hour. Out-of-district and out-of-state rates are higher. A full-time semester of 12 credit hours costs around $996 for in-district students before fees.
Does Lone Star College offer online classes?
Yes. Lone Star College offers a wide selection of online and hybrid courses. Many degree and certificate programs can be completed partially or fully online, depending on the curriculum.
Can I transfer from Lone Star College to a university?
Yes. Lone Star College has articulation agreements with numerous Texas universities, including the University of Houston, Texas A&M, and Sam Houston State University. Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees are designed for transfer.
What is the TSI assessment?
The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment measures readiness in math, reading, and writing. Texas law requires students to take the TSI before enrolling in college-level courses, unless they qualify for an exemption.
Does Lone Star College offer financial aid?
Yes. Students can apply for federal and state financial aid by completing the FAFSA. The college also offers scholarships through the LSC Foundation and accepts VA education benefits.
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