The national average community college acceptance rate is 76% (2026).
For public community colleges, the average acceptance rate is approximately 79%. For private community colleges, the average acceptance rate is approximately 72%.
Acceptance Rate Range: 64%
87%
Avg. Acceptance Rate: 77%
Average Community College Acceptance Rate (2026)
State
Acceptance Rate
Most Selective Colleges
78%
82%
87%
77%
78%
80%
76%
71%
75%
71%
82%
85%
77%
72%
80%
76%
85%
82%
87%
70%
69%
87%
71%
72%
73%
87%
75%
69%
82%
86%
72%
70%
73%
64%
79%
74%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the national average community college acceptance rate?
The national average community college acceptance rate is 76% for 2026.
What are the most selective community college in the United States?
The most selective community college in the United States include College of Central Florida, Atlantic Acting School and Monroe College-New Rochelle.
What is the state with the highest community college acceptance rate?
The state with the highest average community college acceptance rate is Montana.
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