Tacoma Community College logo.

Welcome to #GlobalTCC

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Why ChooseTacoma
Community College?

Tacoma Community College (TCC) is committed to the success of each student and excited to welcome international students from around the globe.

12,000+

Students

200

International Students

40

Countries Represented

Small

Class Sizes

Beautiful

Location

Affordable

Tuition

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Programs

2+2 Bachelor’s Degree

After completing two years of college at TCC, earning their Associate’s Degree, students transfer to another college or university to complete two more years of study, earning their Bachelor’s Degree from that institution. The 2+2 Program offers a more affordable path to a Bachelor’s Degree, small class sizes, free tutoring and other resources to support their academic journey.

What do you want to study? Visit our interactive program finder to explore your area of study.

English for Academic Purposes (EAP)

The EAP program combines English language instruction with academic preparation and skill enhancement. Students undergo a placement test upon arrival to assess their English proficiency level

Learn more about EAP.

Early Admission (High School Completion)

Students aged 16 and above have the opportunity to enroll at Tacoma Community College before graduating from high school in their home country. This early admission allows them to kickstart their Associate degree. Upon fulfilling all degree requirements, students will receive an Associate degree and a U.S. High School Diploma. The EAP program combines English language instruction with academic preparation and skill enhancement. Students undergo a placement test upon arrival to assess their English proficiency level.

Learn more about Early Admission.

Gap Year as a Visiting Student

Interested in studying in the United States? Consider joining Tacoma Community College for a 3, 6, or 9-month period to pursue English language or academic programs.

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University Transfer

Tacoma Community College graduates have been accepted to top universities throughout the U.S including Columbia, University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA), University of Washington and even Yale! We want to make the process of transferring for year three and four of university as smooth as possible, so we partner with the following universities across the U.S. that recognize transfer admission pathways.

Transfer Partners

‍See complete list of transfer institutions.

  • ARKANSAS: University of Arkansas

  • CALIFORNIA: Cal Poly Humboldt, CSU Monterey Bay, CSU Northridge, CSU San Marcos, CSU San Bernardino,
    San Francisco State University

  • IDAHO: Lewis-Clark State College

  • IOWA: University of Iowa

  • OHIO: University of Cincinnati

  • OREGON: Portland State University, University of Oregon

  • MONTANA: University of Montana

  • WASHINGTON: Central Washington University, Eastern Washington University, Gonzaga University, Pacific Lutheran University, Seattle University, Seattle Pacific University, University of Washington Tacoma, Washington State University, Western Washington University, Whitworth University

  • WISCONSIN: University of Wisconsin La Crosse

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Affordable Tuition

TCC maintains low-cost tuition and fees, and also provides some scholarships and on-campus employment opportunities. Students benefit from various free on-campus resources like tutoring, advising, and career guidance.‍

1/4 cost of a state university

*2026-2027 tuition and fees cost for full-time international student.
The figures are for illustrative purposes only.
Detailed cost information is available on the TCC website.

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Housing

TCC Homestay Program

Our affordable Homestay program managed by TCC seeks the best families in Tacoma to host our international students. TCC International Staff will thoroughly vet each family and ensure they live no further than a 60-minute bus-ride or walking commute from campus. Homestay has two offerings: Complete (with three meals/ day) or Shared (no meals included) Airport pick up during our arrival days is included at no cost with the TCC Homestay Program.
‍
 Learn more about homestay here.‍

Local Housing

Students who are 18 and older are eligible to live outside of the Homestay program in a local apartment or house. TCC Staff does not coordinate apartment placement, but there are many options surrounding campus and throughout the city at varying prices.

Learn more about local housing here.

"I think Tacoma is a very safe and easy place to live. Campus is close to many things, like roller skating and bowling and TCC is a great place to hang out with friends."

Naomi farfan Sakihama | Lima, Peru

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Get Involved

At TCC, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive services to support our students and enhance their study experience.

Learn More About Campus Life

Advising

Our advisors assist students in selecting the right courses to progress towards graduation. They also offer immigration guidance to ensure international students maintain their legal status.

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Athletics

Titan Athletics boasts competitive sports teams for both men and women. Explore more here.

Employment and Career Preparation

Seek on-campus employment while studying at TCC. As graduation approaches, the Career Center is ready to help you create a resume and prepare for job interviews.

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Two young adults sitting outdoors in front of a laptop, engaged in conversation.
Musician playing steel drum under a blue canopy at an outdoor community event with people gathered near tables and tents on a sunny day.

Excursions and Events

Enjoy a wide range of events, excursions, and engaging activities organized by the Office of Student Engagement and International Programs.

Student Clubs

TCC hosts clubs catering to a variety of interests. Discover more here.

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Tutoring

Take advantage of our Writing and Tutoring Center for free tutoring and academic support in your classes.

Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma Community College is located in the scenic Pacific Northwest, with easy access to diverse amenities and attractions. The area is known for its tech industry, major companies like Boeing, Amazon and Microsoft, and business opportunities due to its port activities.

visitpiercecounty.com

Mount Rainier National Park

Seattle

Point Defiance Park

Olympia

Olympic National Park

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Applying is as easy
as 1, 2, 3!

Step 1

Collect Required Documents:

  • Passport Copy

  • Academic Transcript

  • Bank Statement (showing sufficient funds for one year of study)

  • Test score is not required for admission but can be submitted for academic placement.

  • IELTS: 5.5

  • TOEFL iBT: 65

  • Duolingo: 90

View all accepted test scores on our website

Step 2

Complete the Online Application:

TCC’s online international application takes 10 minutes to complete.

Start Your Application Today!

Step 3

Pay $50 Application Fee

INQUIRY FORM WILL GO HERE