How to Apply

Adult Basic Education classes are designed for adults who are:

• Proficient in the English language
• Not enrolled in high school
• Wish to improve basic skills in reading, writing, and/or mathematics

Tacoma Community College is proud to be an Amazon Career Choice College. This program empowers Amazon employees to learn new skills for career success at Amazon or elsewhere.

First, apply for admissions at TCC. This does not admit you to the bachelor program. BAS program information.

For those who wish to learn a new hobby, pursue professional development or take a class for sheer enjoyment. No grades, tests or papers - classes designed for those who wish to keep learning. Explore Continuing Education and what it has to offer. 

Educational Talent Search (ETS) is a TRiO program through the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Post-secondary Education that provides needed services and support for students in order to build a competitive profile for college admissions. ETS provides outreach to middle and high school students within the Tacoma School District.

The Fresh Start program (age 16-21) gives you the unique benefits of completing your high school diploma in a mature environment while accumulating college credit. With Fresh Start, you can benefit from:

• The opportunity to cover cost of tuition and textbooks
• Challenging academic classes
• Ongoing educational planning and advising
• Seamless transition from High School to College

High School+ (HS+) is a comprehensive program that includes high school transcript review, credit for life experiences, and classes to complete high school requirements. Adults age 18 and over are eligible to earn a high school diploma through HS+. The benefit is you don't have to choose between GED and HS+ to get started, TCC's Adult Basic Education (ABE) program can help you choose the right path for you!

TCC offers a well-rounded International programs for students around the globe. International Students can earn two-year associate degrees for transfer to a university or earn a professional and technical certificate. It is also an excellent place to learn or improve your English skills or finish high school.

If you are in the US as an "au pair” or “nanny” on a study exchange (J-1) visa, you are required to participate in college-level academic classes. Our Basic Education for Adults classes are not available to students with a J-1 visa. Apply for admissions at TCC here!

TCC has been recognized as a Military Friendly® college since 2009, and has been awarded the designation again for 2018. TCC offers former service men and women and their families education and training opportunities.

Are you are interested in a professional/technical certificate, associates or a transfer degree and have never attend TCC? Apply for admissions.

Have you taken classes at TCC in the past? Email Admissions@tacomacc.edu to see if you need to complete the application.

Running Start is a nationally recognized program that allows eligible high school juniors and seniors to take college-level courses for double-credit: high school requirements and general university requirements.

As space is available, state employees can take up to two classes or 10 credits allowed per quarter. Complete the State Employee Space Available Tuition Waiver form and submit to Enrollment Services, Bldg. 7.

Senior citizens are eligible for a discount. Please complete the Senior Citizen Tuition Reduction form and submit to Enrollment Services, Bldg. 7.

The SPRUCE Program allows tuition and fee waivers for long-term unemployed individuals to enroll in classes at TCC as long as there is space available. The program works to help discouraged workers reestablish themselves as contributing members of the community.

Undocumented students are welcome at TCC, and follow the same application process as all other general education students. For information, tips and support regarding the application process, contact our Retention Coach, Marco Flores (email) (habla español).