It’s no longer news how competitive and expensive education in the United States is, especially for international students. As an international student, you should expect to pay between $25,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on your country.
If you’re coming from one of the developing countries, then this is almost – perhaps totally impossible to pay from pocket.
We could advise you to hustle for scholarships (which is necessary) but, you have more than 500,000 foreign students competing for several scholarships in the United States. So, the cheapest community colleges in Texas for international students are one of the best options in your arsenal.
Community colleges might not provide you with a 4-year bachelor’s degree, they can provide an associate degree that can help you reduce your fees to the minimum, then transfer your acquired credits to a 4-year college to complete the remaining 2 years. This is one of the best ways to finish college with little or no loan, and most of these colleges still provide scholarships.
Texas, known for its diverse culture, thriving economy, and warm southern hospitality, has become a popular destination for international students seeking quality education at an affordable cost. One of the key options for those looking to start their academic journey in the Lone Star State is community colleges. In this blog, we will explore affordable community colleges in Texas, particularly in Houston, and also touch upon online education options.
Cheapest Community Colleges in Texas for International Students
1. Collin College
This is among the most affordable community colleges in Texas for foreign students that also provide scholarships to their students. Some of their scholarships include;
- Collin College Foundation Scholarships
- External Scholarship Opportunities
- Transfer Scholarships
- Good Neighbor Scholarship
| In-District | $62 per credit hour |
| Out-of-District Residents | $115 per credit hour |
| International Students | $185 per credit hour |
2. Dallas College
Dallas College provides both an affordable college for international students and also some degrees and certificates that are 100% online. Some of the degrees you can offer online include;
- Associate of Arts
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Science With a Field of Study in Business
| In-District | $79 per credit hour |
| Out-of-District Residents | $135 per credit hour |
| International Students | $200 per credit hour |
3. El Paso Community College
This college provides quality education in 9 areas of study, which some of them include;
- Arts, Humanities & Communication
- Business
- Health Sciences
- Public Service
- Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math
| In-District | $1740 per year or $116 per credit hour |
| Non-residents/International Students | $3,015 per year or 201 per credit hour |
4. San Jacinto College
This is one of the cheapest community colleges in Texas for international students that offer no lab fees, no general service fees, no distance learning fees, no technology fees, and no incidental fees. Their fees are easy to calculate and you don’t need to worry about additional costs.
| In-District | $78 per credit hour |
| Out-of-District Residents | $135 per credit hour |
| International Students | $210 per credit hour |
5. Tyler Junior College
TJC is one of the largest and most affordable community colleges in Texas that provide 115+ degree and certificate programs, plus extensive training and technical programs. Moreover, in a recent survey of current students, 75% said TJC was their first choice for college, and 94% said they would choose TJC again based on their experience so far.
| In-District | $134 per credit hour |
| Out-of-District Residents | $194 per credit hour |
| International Students | $218 per credit hour |
Cheap Community Colleges in Houston, Texas
Houston, Texas’s most populous city, offers a wide range of educational opportunities, including affordable community colleges. These institutions provide international students with a cost-effective way to start their higher education journey. A few notable community colleges in the Houston area include:
- Houston Community College (HCC): HCC is one of the largest community college systems in Texas, offering a diverse range of programs. The tuition fees at HCC are generally lower compared to four-year universities, making it an attractive option for international students seeking affordability.
- San Jacinto College: San Jacinto College, with campuses in Pasadena, Houston, and other locations, provides quality education at a lower cost. The college offers various programs, including associate degrees and certificates, catering to different career goals.
- Lee College: Located in Baytown, Texas, Lee College offers a range of academic and technical programs. The cost of tuition and fees at Lee College is competitive, making it an attractive choice for international students.
Cheapest Online Colleges in Texas
Online education has gained popularity, especially in recent years, due to its flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Several online colleges in Texas offer affordable education options for international students:
- Western Texas College: Western Texas College offers online courses and programs at competitive tuition rates. The college’s online courses are accessible to international students, allowing them to pursue their education from anywhere in the world.
- Grayson College: Grayson College provides affordable online education, making it an attractive option for international students. The college offers various associate degree and certificate programs through its online platform.
- Panola College: Panola College offers online courses that international students can access at a lower cost. This flexibility allows students to balance their education with other commitments.
Affordable Community Colleges in Texas
Apart from Houston, Texas is home to several other community colleges that provide affordable education options for international students:
- Austin Community College (ACC): ACC offers a wide range of programs at competitive tuition rates. International students can access quality education in Austin, one of Texas’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities.
- Collin College: Located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Collin College offers affordable education options. The college’s diverse programs cater to a broad spectrum of academic interests.
- Tarrant County College: Tarrant County College, with multiple campuses in the Fort Worth area, offers competitive tuition fees and a variety of programs for international students.
Cheapest Community Colleges in Texas for International Students
When looking for the most budget-friendly options for international students, it’s essential to consider factors like tuition, fees, and living costs. While tuition costs may vary based on residency status, several Texas community colleges offer cost-effective options for all students:
- South Texas College: South Texas College, located in McAllen, offers affordable education for international students. The college’s strong commitment to inclusivity makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a budget-friendly education.
- El Paso Community College: EPCC, situated in El Paso, Texas, offers competitive tuition fees and various programs for international students. The college’s proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border adds a unique cultural dimension to the educational experience.
- Coastal Bend College: Coastal Bend College, located in Beeville, Texas, offers cost-effective education options, including associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs.
Conclusion
Texas, with its diverse educational landscape, offers numerous affordable options for international students looking to begin their academic journey. Community colleges in Houston, online institutions, and other community colleges across the state provide a cost-effective way to obtain a quality education. When considering a college in Texas, it’s essential to research the specific programs, living costs, and scholarship opportunities to make an informed decision about your academic future. Texas’s warm hospitality and vibrant culture await international students as they embark on their educational adventure in the Lone Star State.
