Last Updated: April 25, 2026
How to Apply at Portland Community College
Quick Answer: Portland Community College (PCC) is an open-admissions community college serving the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area. Apply online for free through the PCC website, complete placement, and register for classes at any of the college's four campuses or online.
About Portland Community College
Portland Community College (PCC) is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon, serving more than 50,000 students each year across four campuses and numerous community-based locations in the Portland metro area. The four main campuses — Cascade, Rock Creek, Southeast, and Sylvania — each offer a unique mix of programs while sharing the same commitment to affordable, accessible education. PCC is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
PCC offers more than 100 associate degree and certificate programs spanning academic transfer, career and technical education, and continuing education. The college is known for its strong transfer pathways to Oregon's public universities, including Portland State University, Oregon State University, and the University of Oregon. PCC also maintains deep partnerships with Portland-area employers in technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and the skilled trades, providing students with direct pipelines to local employment opportunities.
How to Apply at Portland Community College
PCC maintains an open-admissions policy. There are no entrance exams, minimum GPAs, or competitive admissions for general enrollment. The application is free and available online year-round.
Step 1: Submit Your Online Application
Complete the free application on the PCC website. You will provide your personal information, educational history, and intended area of study. The application takes about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Determine Your Residency Status
Oregon residents within the PCC district receive the lowest tuition rates. Provide documentation of your residency, such as an Oregon driver's license or utility bills. Students who have lived in Oregon for at least 90 days typically qualify for in-state rates.
Step 3: Submit Transcripts
Send your official high school transcript or GED scores. If you have attended other colleges, send those transcripts for transfer credit evaluation. PCC uses transcripts to help determine placement and award transfer credits.
Step 4: Complete Placement
PCC uses multiple measures for placement, including high school GPA, prior college coursework, and standardized test scores. Many students are placed directly into college-level courses based on their transcripts without needing to take a separate placement test. If additional assessment is needed, PCC offers guided self-placement and testing options.
Step 5: Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA or the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA) to determine your eligibility for grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study. PCC's financial aid office provides assistance with the application process.
Step 6: Meet with an Advisor and Register
Connect with an academic advisor to discuss your goals, review your placement, and build your course schedule. Advisors help you choose the right courses for your degree plan or transfer pathway. Register through the MyPCC student portal and pay tuition by the deadline.
Available Programs and Tuition
PCC offers a wide range of academic and career-technical programs. In-district tuition is among the most affordable in Oregon, making PCC an excellent value for students starting their college education or changing careers.
| Program | Tuition (Per Credit) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT) | $117 in-district | 2 years |
| Associate of Science (AS) | $117 in-district | 2 years |
| Nursing (ADN) | $117 in-district | 2 years |
| Computer Information Systems (AAS) | $117 in-district | 2 years |
| Machine Manufacturing Technology (AAS) | $117 in-district | 2 years |
| Dental Hygiene (AAS) | $117 in-district | 2 years |
| Welding Technology (Certificate) | $117 in-district | 6 – 12 months |
| Early Childhood Education (AAS) | $117 in-district | 2 years |
Admission Requirements
PCC is an open-admissions college. Any student who is at least 16 years of age or who has a high school diploma or GED can enroll. There are no minimum GPA requirements or entrance exams for general admission. Selective programs such as Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Radiography, and Veterinary Technology have additional admission requirements including prerequisite courses, minimum GPAs, background checks, and health clearances. High school students may enroll through dual credit partnerships. International students must provide proof of English proficiency, financial documentation, and valid immigration paperwork.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
PCC participates in federal and state financial aid programs. Students should complete the FAFSA or the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA) for undocumented students. PCC awards millions of dollars in financial aid annually through Pell Grants, federal loans, Oregon Opportunity Grants, and work-study positions. The PCC Foundation offers hundreds of scholarships each year, many targeted to specific programs, populations, or campuses. Oregon's Promise Grant program may cover tuition for qualifying recent high school graduates. Workforce development programs may access funding through WorkSource Oregon. Veterans and military-connected students can apply GI Bill benefits. PCC also offers emergency grants and a tuition payment plan.
Student Life and Support Services
PCC provides comprehensive student support across all four campuses. Free tutoring is available through campus learning centers in writing, math, science, and other subjects. Career services offer job search assistance, resume workshops, and mock interviews. Student life at PCC includes over 70 clubs and organizations, student government, cultural events, and community service opportunities. Each campus features a library, computer labs, and student gathering spaces. Mental health counseling, disability services, and multicultural resource centers support student well-being and inclusion. PCC operates food pantries on every campus through the Panther Pantry program. The college also provides childcare assistance and transportation subsidies for eligible students. Transfer advising is available to help students plan their move to four-year universities. PCC also runs a robust continuing education and community development program that includes English language learning, GED preparation, and professional development courses. The college maintains specialized training facilities for manufacturing, welding, dental hygiene, and automotive technology that give students hands-on experience with industry equipment. PCC's honors program provides academically ambitious students with enhanced coursework, research projects, and priority transfer consideration at Oregon universities. The institution is also a leader in sustainability education, integrating environmental awareness across its curriculum and campus operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to commonly asked questions about Portland Community College.
Is Portland Community College open admissions?
Yes. PCC accepts all applicants who are at least 16 years old or hold a high school diploma or GED. Some healthcare and technical programs have additional competitive requirements.
How much does PCC cost per term?
In-district students pay approximately $117 per credit. A full-time load of 12 credits costs about $1,404 before fees per term. PCC operates on a quarter system with three main terms per academic year.
Can I transfer from PCC to a university?
Yes. PCC's Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT) degree is designed for seamless transfer to any Oregon public university. PCC also has specific transfer agreements with Portland State University, Oregon State, and the University of Oregon.
Does PCC offer online classes?
Yes. PCC offers a large catalog of online and hybrid courses. Many degree and certificate programs can be completed partially or entirely through online coursework.
Is there an application fee for PCC?
No. The PCC application is completely free for all students.
Does PCC offer the Oregon Promise Grant?
Yes. Qualifying recent high school graduates may receive the Oregon Promise Grant, which helps cover tuition costs at PCC. Students must apply through FAFSA or ORSAA and meet specific eligibility criteria.
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