Austin Community College District (ACC) takes the next step in making college more affordable for all students. The Board of Trustees approved a bold proposal to offer FREE tuition for high school graduates and GED® completers — starting with the class of 2024. While that is just the starting point, ACC remains committed to all students’ success.
The college’s goal is to expand the program to all students. In response to a student’s comments during the regular board meeting on Monday, April 1, the college immediately began discussions on how best to expand the program to current students as soon as possible.
“We know you face many of the same challenges. During the board meeting, one student came to share their support for the pilot program and advocate for our current students. Carey’s words resonated with all of us. I want you to know that we’re thinking of you,” says ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart. “We’re going to explore opportunities to extend tuition relief to our current students. I don’t know exactly what that looks like yet, but we’re looking at our options. It could be something like new financial support for those who are close to completion.”
The college will continue to work through expansion options in the coming months. Updates will be shared with students as they become available. Right now, current students are encouraged to file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) form (which helps non-citizens and undocumented students who are Texas residents access state financial aid), and apply for scholarships. There is additional money available — unclaimed — through grants, scholarships, and more. The deadline for priority consideration for the FAFSA, TASFA, and for scholarships is May 1.
For 11 straight years, the college has maintained tuition and fees, keeping rates the lowest in the area. In-district students at ACC will continue to pay $67 per credit hour for tuition—with fees, it comes to $85 per credit hour. The out-of-district fee will remain the same at $201 per credit hour.
Why Class of 2024 for Free Tuition Pilot Program
The five-year pilot program will offer free tuition and general fees for high school seniors, including public, private, charter, and homeschoolers, and GED® completers who live in the ACC service area.
After months of discussion with internal and external stakeholders, this group was selected based on multiple factors. Graduating high school seniors and GED completers were identified as the first cohort in part because of concerning regional data that indicate 57% of all high school graduates in our region did not enroll in any postsecondary education in the state after high school in 2023.
“This is the first step in transforming higher education in our region and making college more affordable. When you hear from families, the number one reason they’re not enrolling in postsecondary institutions is because they can’t afford the tuition and fees. We’ve removed the number one barrier to college completion,” says Dr. Lowery-Hart.
What This Means for Current Students
Current students and adult learners will remain a priority for ACC. As the rollout of the Free Tuition pilot program begins, ACC will start work now to fundraise and expand the program. The vision is to scale for all students as soon as possible.
For immediate relief for current students, the pilot program is expected to free up financial aid and scholarship opportunities for current students and adult learners. The ACC Foundation and college are working to raise more support for students.
“There are several ways our current students will benefit from this program. First, it opens up dollars in federal aid, grants, and scholarships. If our student files their FAFSA, there’s a likelihood that student will receive more support,” says Dr. Lowery-Hart. “This is the first step in our goal to make college more affordable for all our students. We need data that shows that it works. We need community support to broaden it. And when we get those two things, this will expand to all our students.”
Support Available Now
The college remains committed to supporting all students through their educational journey to help them meet their educational and career goals. From success coaches, academic advisors, tutors, money management, and more, ACC offers complete wraparound services.
ACC’s Student Advocacy Center provides tailored assistance and referrals to a targeted group of students who require additional support to overcome obstacles and achieve their educational objectives: austincc.edu/students/support-center.
ACC is committed to making higher education affordable for everyone. The college will work to double down on these efforts for all students. Check the links below for other options to assist with paying for college.
Scholarships
Scholarships extend beyond academic excellence, offering opportunities based on career aspirations, family circumstances, cultural heritage, school affiliations, and more. A centralized application connects students to a multitude of scholarship opportunities: austincc.edu/scholarships.
Financial Aid
Financial assistance encompasses various forms, including grants (free money), loans (borrowed funds), and work-study programs (part-time employment). Eligible U.S. Citizens and non-citizens can apply annually through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for aid: austincc.edu/fafsa.
Emergency Fund
ACC administers a Student Emergency Fund aimed at supporting students in maintaining progress towards their academic and career pursuits. Eligible students can utilize emergency funds to address essential expenses: austincc.edu/sef.
Third Party Sponsors
Employers or organizations may offer tuition and fee assistance. Students are encouraged to inquire with their employer or affiliated organizations about potential aid options. For instance, ACC students have accessed support through programs like Capital Idea: capitalidea.org.