Community colleges offer training to adults who might simply be looking for a new career. Many community colleges offer Associate Degrees in a variety of fields that don't require further education or training. Community colleges offer training in a wide variety of fields ranging from accounting to welding. By studying at a school in their own community, adult students have the ability to attend night classes and study around their existing schedule.
For students who are hesitant to make the jump to a big university, whether it's due to nerves or financial reasons, community colleges provide kids with a buffer. Community colleges are a cheap way to go ahead and knock out your general education courses before you have to focus on, or decide on, your major. Community colleges ease the transition from high school to college by offering a smaller scale version of college living. Students will experience bigger and more challenging courses and dorm life. If a student isn't up for dorm living, community colleges also offer the opportunity to stay closer to home.
While most community colleges are significantly cheaper than four-year schools, they still offer students the opportunity to apply for scholarships and financial aid. Most community colleges offer the same payment plan options and assistance that four-year schools do. The difference in the case of the community college is that you're saving even more money off the top because of cheaper tuition.
After completing studies at a community college, most students will have obtained an Associates Degree. This degree and a good grade point average will go along way in your efforts to continue your education at a bigger school. Many students attend community colleges to use them as a springboard to a four-year college so that they can receive their bachelor's degree. Your grades and accomplishments at a community college will give bigger schools a clearer idea of your study habits and your ambitions. This might make them more willing to give you additional scholarships or other financial assistance.