California residents are charged $26 per unit for community college courses. A typical course is 3 or 4 units, for a cost of $78 to $104. A student who enrolls in 12 units is considered a full-time student - that student would pay $26 x 12 units = $312 per semester. Colleges may also charge for class materials and add fees for things like health services, parking and student government. Fees are generally due when you register for classes.
Students who are not California residents are charged out-of-state tuition in addition to the enrollment fee. Out-of-state tuition rates are set by each community college district but are generally between $140 and $170 per unit.
California residents may apply for a California Community College Board of Governors Waiver (BOGW), which waives the $18 per unit enrollment fee as well as exempts students from the health fee. Students who meet the following criteria may qualify:
Current recipient of TANF/CalWorks, SSI, SSP, or General Assistance
Be determined by the financial aid office to have financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Meet the following income standards:*
Number in household (Including yourself)
1
2
3
4
Total family income
$12,360 or less
$16,590 or less
$20,820 or less
$25,050 or less
Add $4,230 for each additional dependent.
*Subject to change pending action by the California State Legislature.
Before you register, visit your college's financial aid office and complete the BOGW application. Students who apply for fee waivers should also consider applying for financial aid.
Other than housing, books represent the greatest cost at a community college. The cost of books varies due to number of courses and number of books required for each course. A full-time student should generally plan on spending approximately $420 each semester for books and supplies.
Many bookstores offer used books at a lower price. Some colleges have book loan programs.
