Austin Community College District (ACC) is here to help you reach your college and career goals. Paying for classes should never get in the way. We offer the best tuition rates around and can connect you with dozens of ways to save. We believe college is for everyone. ACC is for everyone.

Written by: Belinda Peña, ACC Work-Study, outreach coordinator 

Top 5 Ways to Find Money for College

1. Financial Aid

Financial Aid comes in the form of free money (grants), borrowed money (loans), and part-time employment (work study). U.S. Citizens and eligible non-citizens can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to see if you qualify for assistance: studentaid.gov.

2. Scholarships

Scholarships aren’t just for straight-A students. You can receive free money for college based on your career interests, family status, heritage, high school alma mater, and more. At ACC, we make it simple. Complete a single application and get connected to hundreds of opportunities: austincc.edu/scholarships.

3. Support Center

ACC's Support Center provides specialized assistance and referrals to a select group of students who would benefit from additional assistance to overcome challenges and complete their education: austincc.edu/students/support-center.

4. Third-Party Sponsors

Tuition and fees can be paid by employers or organizations. Contact your employer or any other organization to which you belong to see if tuition assistance is available. For example, many ACC students have been able to qualify for assistance through Capital Idea: capitalidea.org.

5. Emergency Fund

ACC has a student emergency fund to help you stay on track to reach your academic and career goals. If you're eligible, emergency funds may be used to help cover necessary expenses: austincc.edu/caresaid.

Financial Assistance for Special Populations

Undocumented Students

Undocumented Texas residents may complete the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) to apply for grants and work-study: austincc.edu/undocumented.

Veterans

Access the full value of your military benefits by connecting with Veteran Affairs Specialists: austincc.edu/veterans.

Tuition Exemptions & Waivers for Special Populations

Exemptions and waivers offer discounts for special groups of Texas residents or nonresidents so you pay less in tuition and/or fees. You must meet the specific requirements to receive the exemption: austincc.edu/students/tuition-and-payments/waivers-and-exemptions.

Continuing Education Students

ACC offers various ways to continuing education students to fund their education from grant aid and payment plan options: https://continue.austincc.edu/financial-assistance 

For more information, visit https://www.austincc.edu/paying-for-college