Last Updated: April 25, 2026
How to Apply at Tarrant County College
Quick Answer: Tarrant County College (TCC) is an open-admissions community college district in the Fort Worth, Texas area. Apply for free through ApplyTexas or the TCC website, complete placement testing, and register for courses across six campus locations or online.
About Tarrant County College
Tarrant County College (TCC) is a public community college district serving Tarrant County in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. With six campuses — Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, Trinity River, and Trinity River East — TCC enrolls approximately 50,000 credit students each year. 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 spanning academic transfer, workforce development, and continuing education.
TCC is recognized for its affordable tuition, strong transfer pathways to regional universities, and workforce training programs aligned with the needs of North Texas employers. The college maintains partnerships with major industries in the area, including aviation, healthcare, logistics, and advanced manufacturing. TCC also operates one of the largest dual credit enrollment programs in the state, giving high school students a head start on college. The college has been recognized nationally for its commitment to student success, workforce readiness, and community engagement. TCC's campuses feature modern learning environments with state-of-the-art laboratories, simulation centers, and hands-on training workshops that prepare students for careers in high-demand industries. The college also provides a range of non-credit continuing education courses and professional development programs for community members seeking to enhance their skills without pursuing a formal degree.
How to Apply at Tarrant County College
TCC practices open admissions, accepting all students with a high school diploma, GED, or who are at least 18 years old. The application is free and can be completed online in about 20 minutes.
Step 1: Submit Your Online Application
Apply through ApplyTexas (www.applytexas.org) or the TCC admissions page. Provide your personal information, educational background, and intended program of study. There is no application fee.
Step 2: Establish Residency Status
Tarrant County residents receive in-district tuition rates. Submit residency documentation such as a Texas driver's license, property tax records, or utility bills. Out-of-county Texas residents pay a slightly higher rate, and out-of-state students pay the highest rates.
Step 3: Submit Transcripts
Send official high school transcripts or GED certificates to the TCC admissions office. If you have earned credits at other colleges, submit those transcripts for transfer credit evaluation.
Step 4: Take the TSI Assessment
Complete the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment for placement in math, reading, and writing courses, unless you have a qualifying exemption. TCC offers the TSI at testing centers on each campus.
Step 5: Complete New Student Orientation
Attend an orientation session, available online or on campus, to learn about TCC's academic programs, student resources, and campus culture. Orientation is required for all first-time students.
Step 6: Meet with an Advisor and Register
Work with an academic advisor to develop your educational plan and choose your first-semester courses. Register for classes through the TCC student portal and pay tuition by the posted deadline.
Available Programs and Tuition
TCC provides a broad range of academic and workforce programs. Tuition is among the most affordable in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with in-district students receiving the lowest rates.
| Program | Tuition (Per Credit Hour) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Associate of Arts (Transfer) | $57 in-district | 2 years |
| Associate of Science (Transfer) | $57 in-district | 2 years |
| Nursing (ADN) | $57 in-district | 2 years |
| Aviation Maintenance Technology (AAS) | $57 in-district | 2 years |
| Logistics & Supply Chain Management (AAS) | $57 in-district | 2 years |
| Welding Technology (Certificate) | $57 in-district | 6 – 12 months |
| Computer Networking (AAS) | $57 in-district | 2 years |
| Dental Hygiene (AAS) | $57 in-district | 2 years |
Admission Requirements
TCC has open admissions for general enrollment. Applicants must possess a high school diploma, GED, or be at least 18 years old. No minimum GPA or standardized test scores are required for general admission. Selective-entry programs such as Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Veterinary Technology, and Aviation Maintenance have additional prerequisites that may include specific prerequisite coursework, minimum grades, background checks, and health clearances. Dual credit students need approval from their high school. International students must submit immigration documents, proof of English proficiency, and financial verification.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
TCC participates in federal and state financial aid programs. Students should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for Pell Grants, federal student loans, the Texas Public Educational Grant, and work-study programs. The TCC Foundation administers a robust scholarship program with awards based on merit, financial need, and field of study. Workforce programs may qualify for additional funding through the Texas Workforce Commission. TCC offers a tuition installment plan allowing students to split payments over the semester. Military-connected students can apply GI Bill benefits and tuition assistance to their TCC enrollment.
Student Life and Support Services
TCC offers comprehensive support services across all six campuses. Free tutoring is available in writing, math, science, and other subjects through campus learning centers. Career services assist students with job searches, internships, resume building, and interview preparation. Student organizations, honor societies, intramural sports, and cultural events create opportunities for campus engagement. Mental health counseling, disability services, and veteran support services are available at no extra cost to enrolled students. Each campus features a library, computer labs, and student commons areas. TCC's transfer advising team helps students plan their transition to universities including the University of Texas at Arlington, Texas Christian University, and Texas Wesleyan University. The college also runs an extensive continuing education division that provides workforce training, professional development, and community enrichment courses. TCC's honors program offers academically motivated students opportunities for advanced coursework, conference attendance, and enhanced transfer recommendations. The college maintains state-of-the-art simulation labs for healthcare programs, advanced manufacturing workshops, and dedicated aviation maintenance training facilities that give students hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment. TCC also partners with local school districts to provide one of the largest dual credit enrollment programs in Texas, allowing high school students to earn college credits while completing their secondary education at reduced or no cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about applying to Tarrant County College.
Is Tarrant County College open admissions?
Yes. TCC accepts all applicants with a high school diploma or GED for general enrollment. Certain healthcare and technical programs have competitive admissions with additional requirements.
How much does TCC cost per semester?
In-district students pay approximately $57 per credit hour. A full-time semester of 12 credit hours costs around $684 before fees. Out-of-district and out-of-state rates are higher.
Does TCC offer online classes?
Yes. TCC offers a wide variety of online and hybrid courses each semester. Many degree programs can be completed partially or fully through online coursework.
Can I transfer from TCC to a four-year university?
Yes. TCC has articulation and transfer agreements with many Texas universities, including UTA, TCU, Texas Wesleyan, and Texas Woman's University. The Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees are designed for transfer.
Does TCC have an application fee?
No. Applying to TCC is completely free whether you apply through ApplyTexas or the TCC website.
What campuses does TCC have?
TCC operates six campuses across Tarrant County: Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, Trinity River, and Trinity River East. Each campus offers a selection of academic and workforce programs.
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