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What is the Self Pay Tuition Installment Plan (TIP)? 

The Self Pay Tuition Installment Plan (TIP) allows you to pay your tuition and class fees in smaller, manageable payments over the course of the quarter, rather than paying the full amount all at once. This plan is ideal for students paying out of pocket or those waiting for financial aid, scholarships, or other third-party funding to arrive.

TIP is not a loan, so there’s no interest and no credit check required. It simply gives you more flexibility and time to cover your educational costs each quarter. 

What Does TIP Cover?

TIP covers:

  • Tuition for the quarter

  • Class-related fees (e.g., lab or course fees)

TIP does not cover:

  • Textbooks or course materials

  • Supplies or equipment

  • Parking permits

  • Fines or late fees

Make sure you budget separately for items not included in the plan.

TIP is available to most enrolled students, including:

  • New students starting their first quarter

  • Continuing or returning students

  • Part-time or full-time students

How to Enroll in TIP

You can enroll in TIP either online or in person:

  1. Log in to your ctcLink student account.

  2. Navigate to the Student Homepage and click on Financial Account.

  3. Choose the Payment Plan option.

  4. Follow the prompts to enroll in the plan.

Your first payment and a $25 non-refundable enrollment fee are due at the time you sign up.

In-Person Enrollment

Visit our Student Financials Analyst in Building 17, Room 141.

  • Set up the installment plan

  • Complete and sign your contract

  • Make your first payment

This is a great option if you have questions or need one-on-one help.

Payment Methods

To complete your enrollment in TIP, your first installment payment (plus the $25 enrollment fee) must be received by the Cashiering Office. You can pay using:

  • Cash

  • Personal check

  • Visa or MasterCard

  • Mobile wallet (Apple Pay or Google Pay)

Payments must be made on time according to the dates listed in your plan. Missing a payment may result in holds on your account, late fees, or removal from the plan.

Contact Us

253-589-5651
TIP@cptc.edu
Building 17, Room 141
Lakewood Campus

Office Hours
Monday, Tuesday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm
Wednesday 7:30 am to 7pm
Thursday 8 am to 12 pm
Friday 7:30 am to 12 pm
 

TIP Important DatesSpring 2025Summer 2025Fall 2025Winter 2026Spring 2026
Ideal 1st Payment Due DateWhen you enroll in the plan  
(Includes $25 fee)
When you enroll in the plan  
(Includes $25 fee)
When you enroll in the plan  
(Includes $25 fee)
When you enroll in the plan  
(Includes $25 fee)
When you enroll in the plan  
(Includes $25 fee)
2nd Payment Due DateMarch 20, 2025July 17th, 2025October 19, 2025January 17, 2026April 15, 2026
Final Payment due DateApril 19, 2025August 18, 2025November 18, 2025February 17, 2026May 16, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions