Austin Community College tuition-free program enrolls more than 9,000 in second year

January 20, 2026

Austin Community College reports that its tuition-free program now serves in excess of 9,000 students in the program's second year. The initiative covers tuition for students enrolled in degree programs, allowing them to attend classes without paying standard tuition costs.

Enrollment in the program has roughly doubled since the first year, reflecting a significant rise in participation. ACC officials attribute the jump to continued outreach and sustained interest from students seeking an affordable path to a credential or degree.

Students in the program are pursuing a variety of two-year and transfer-oriented degrees across ACC campuses and online offerings. By removing the tuition charge, the program aims to ease the financial burden that can prevent many residents from starting or finishing college-level programs.

The growth of this initiative carries implications for workforce development and college completion rates in the Austin area. More students moving through degree programs could increase the number of credentialed workers in local industries, and the program may influence future enrollment patterns at other institutions.

ACC is monitoring participation as the program continues into its next academic cycle, and the college says it will use enrollment data to guide outreach and resource allocation. Administrators also plan to track how the program affects student persistence and graduation outcomes over time.

The expansion highlights ongoing efforts by community colleges to address affordability and access in higher education. For many students, the tuition-free option removes a key obstacle to enrolling, and the increase in participants demonstrates strong demand for such pathways in the Austin region.