Community colleges are based locally in numerous neighborhoods to accommodate students who need to stay close to home or close enough to commute easily. Many students choose to remain at home for the support of family or to assist with the care of a family member. Additionally, community colleges take into account the time constraints of each individual, who may have other obligations including a family or a full-time job; therefore, classes are not only offered throughout the day but also in the early morning, at night and even on the weekend.
Tuition for community college is often much more affordable than regular tuition at state and regional universities. Financing an individual's education at the collegiate level is unavoidable and can be a deterrent for someone who is enrolling. The many locations of community colleges throughout the country allow those who live close enough to cut out the steep cost of living on campus entirely. Community college is also generally less expensive because the focus of the school is on education rather than campus life, which can raise prices extravagantly.
Attending community college for a few semesters is also beneficial to students who are not yet ready to commit to a certain academic program. Community colleges provide a wealth of information to students who are uncertain about which career path to follow or who cannot yet decide on a major. Classes can be exploratory, allowing students to find out which subject interests them and what program is best suited to these interests. Community college is also ideal for those who need a little more preparatory education before entering into a typical college or university.
At community colleges, class sizes are typically smaller than those at larger state school or universities. With fewer students to instruct, individual students will benefit from the extra attention of professors without paying the tuition bill of a smaller private college. Instructors at community colleges are not often afforded teaching assistants, so a student can also be assured of constant contact with the professor in charge of the class. Those who enroll in a community college may find that the direct, individualized contact with professors helps improve grades and keeps the student on track.