Dear Student Affairs Team,

Spring registration has begun, and as we guide students through planning, registering, and paying for classes, it’s important that we all share consistent and accurate information, especially about the recent tuition changes approved by the ACC Board of Trustees.

Why This Matters

The Board found that ACC’s out-of-state tuition was among the highest in Texas. This adjustment better aligns ACC with other Texas colleges while keeping in-district and out-of-district rates steady. It reinforces our commitment to being one of the most affordable and accessible colleges in the state, while honoring the ongoing support of our local taxpayers.

Tuition Update

On Monday, October 6, the ACC Board of Trustees unanimously voted to approve lower out-of-state tuition rates beginning Spring 2026.

Here’s what you need to know and share with students:

Out-of-State Tuition: Lowered from $335 to $200 per credit hour
Out-of-District Fee: Remains $201 per credit hour
In-District Tuition: No change, continuing more than 12 years without an increase
International students and out-of-state students who live out of district will now pay the out-of-district fee.
All Texas Resident Rates: Remain the same
Undocumented Students: Will pay the new out-of-state rate of $200 per credit hour (per Texas law)

Impact By Student Type

Student Type	Residency	Tuition Impact
Out-of-State (Including Non-Resident)	In-District	$200 per credit hour
	Out-of-District	$200 + $201 per credit hour
International (Foreign, Non-Resident)	In-District	$200 per credit hour
	Out-of-District	$200 + $201 per credit hour

Free Tuition Students: The Out-of-State tuition rate will be waived for students who are otherwise eligible for the Free Tuition program, provided they graduated from one of the ACC In-District schools, from a home school or an online school, or earned their Texas GED during the eligibility window. Please note that the Out-of-District fee will still apply, but their tuition will be fully covered.

Automatic Updates

Students do not need to take any action; tuition changes will be applied automatically in ACC’s systems to ensure all rates are correct.

How We Can Support Students

When discussing registration, let students know tuition changes are already in effect and no additional action is required on their part.
Some students, particularly out-of-district or international students, may have questions about cost differences.
For students needing help understanding their tuition or payment options, billing, or financial aid, direct them to the Help Desk .
The Help Desk will route inquiries to the appropriate area, including:
Financial Aid Office – for questions about FAFSA, grants, scholarships, or financial aid eligibility.
TASFA Hotline - for questions directly related to TASFA applications and grants.
Encourage students to explore ACC Foundation Scholarships at austincc.edu/scholarships; This is an excellent option for those impacted by tuition changes or seeking additional financial support.
Students can also visit MyACC, Tuition & Fees for official rate details and deadlines.

Thank you for continuing to guide our Riverbats with compassion and helping them believe in their success.

Sincerely,

Shasta Buchanan, Ed.D.

Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs

Austin Community College District

Austin Community College | austincc.edu