Frequently Asked Questions on Community Colleges
Trying to decide if you should attend community college and what the advantages could be? Learn how two-year schools can be your way into universities and careers.
What is community college?
Community college is the most common type of two-year college. These colleges offer many educational programs, including those that lead to associate degrees and certificates. Certificates and some types of associate degrees focus on career readiness. Other types of associate degrees are good preparation for study at a four-year college where graduates can earn a bachelor’s degree.
What are the advantages of going to community college?
One of the biggest advantages is it takes less time to complete community college than to earn a university degree. In short, you can finish school more quickly and start your career. Many community colleges are two-year schools where you can earn an associate degree to prepare you for a career. Another major advantage of going to community college is the cost. Community college is more affordable than most four-year schools.
Do you have to apply to community college?
Yes. You need to apply. Community colleges have admission requirements and application deadlines just as four-year colleges do. Sending in your application as soon as possible gives you time to ensure you’ve included all of the necessary documents.
Can I get financial aid for community college?
Even though tuition at community college is usually low, financial aid is available. The federal Pell Grant, for example, is open to students attending any accredited postsecondary institution. You can even qualify if you go part time. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is available for community college students as well as undergraduate and graduate students. Filling out the FAFSA will make you eligible for federal- and state-based financial aid, including student loans, grants, and work-study programs.
What students go to community college?
More than 40% of U.S. undergraduate students attend community colleges. Students who are 18 to 24 years old make up the largest age group. Community colleges also attract working adults, retirees, and others who want to learn.
Is there an on-campus community?
Unlike residential colleges, many community colleges lack on-campus housing. Most students live nearby. Therefore, many of these colleges make a special effort to build a sense of community on campus. You’ll find a wide variety of student activities and organizations, like those at four-year colleges.
Do you have to apply to community college?
Yes. You need to apply. Community colleges have admission requirements and application deadlines just as four-year colleges do. Sending in your application as soon as possible gives you time to ensure you’ve included all of the necessary documents.
How can community college help me move along on my career path?
Save money: Costs are typically much lower than those at four-year colleges. According to the 2021 Community College Review, public community colleges on average charge $5,155 yearly for in-state students and $8,835 for out-of-state students. As a point of comparison, our report shows that the average 2021-22 annual tuition for public four-year colleges was $10,740 for in-state students and $27,560 for out-of-state students.
Prepare to transfer to a four-year college: Many community college graduates decide to transfer to four-year schools to complete their bachelor’s degrees. Smart planning can help ensure that the credits you earn will count toward your degree at the four-year college you hope to attend. Find out more about transferring.
Get ready for a career: If you want to enter the workforce sooner, you can earn a certificate or degree in a career-oriented field, such as firefighting or engineering technology.
Try out college: Most programs are open admission. This means that you can go to college even if your high school grades aren’t strong. A community college is also a good option if you’re not sure you’re ready for college. You’ll have a chance to challenge yourself and see if college is right for you.
Take advantage of a flexible schedule: Most community colleges offer an element of convenience to students. You can attend full time or part time, as well as schedule your courses around home and work commitments. There’s a campus within a short driving distance of most towns in the United States.
You can use College Search to find a community college that’s a good fit for you.
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