These U.S. Schools Offer Free College Tuition for Students

Raise your hand if you want free college tuition. Getting quality education for your kids that doesn’t cost a thing is a parent’s dream. It’s the easiest way to avoid heaps of student loan debt. There are a lot of parents on the KCL staff, and we’ve researched the options for you.

A debt-free college education is hands down the best freebie you’ll ever get. Thankfully, the list of colleges with free tuition in the U.S. is steadily growing. In fact, as of Aug. 2022, some type of free college education is available in 33 states — whether it’s scholarships, grants, work programs, or state-sponsored assistance. And most Americans support free community college tuition.

Just so we’re clear, free doesn’t mean that you won’t have some fees to pay, but the big costs may be covered if you meet the criteria. This can include income levels, residency, or a promise to serve (like the military).

For general savings tips, don’t forget to download the Krazy Coupon Lady app for deal alerts and coupons. Or, bookmark the back-to-school deals page when you’re ready to buy school supplies. While this isn’t a completely exhaustive list (organized by state), it’s a great starting point to help lessen the burden of college education.

 

Arkansas

Through the Arkansas Division of Higher Education’s Scholarship Application Management System, find a list of current scholarships. Each section includes the award amount, annual deadline, and eligibility requirements.

Other Arkansas Programs:

• ArFuture is a grant that covers tuition and fees for students entering a STEM or high-demand associate degree or certificate program at any Arkansas community or technical college. You must be an Arkansas high school graduate. There’s no minimum GPA is required, however the grant can only be received after you get approved for state or federal student aid. Upon graduation, you’ll need to participate in a mentoring program. Then you must complete community service and work full-time in the state for at least three years.
• If you’re an Arkansas resident over age 60, the University of Arkansas Little Rock has a program that covers tuition and fees through a waiver. Space is limited and doesn’t include book and class supply costs.

 

California

The California College Promise Grant is a first-dollar program that provides free community college for one year to all California residents who are first-time college students. This means that it covers tuition before any other financial aid is awarded. To qualify, students must submit the FAFSA or a California Dream Act application, and be enrolled full time (12 or more semester units) for one academic year. Check out the list of participating California Promise community colleges.

Other California Programs:

• Families making less than $90,000 per year who can demonstrate financial need can attend Soka University in Aliso Viejo for free. Soka is a global liberal arts school. Their Soka Opportunity Plan is only available if you’re working on your first bachelor’s degree.
• Deep Springs College is located in Deep Springs Valley and 40 miles from its closest town — Bishop, California. This small, rural two-year college gives all its admitted students a full scholarship that pays for tuition, room, and board. Only 12–15 students are admitted each year. Moreover, you only need to pay for books, insurance, and incidentals. Each student is expected to work about 20 hours per week. You’re ineligible if you’re over 23 years old and already have a bachelor’s degree.
• San Francisco residents can receive tuition-free access year round through the city’s Free City program. This partnership between City College and the City of San Francisco lets first time and returning students earn an associate’s degree. The grant doesn’t cover fees.
• The University of Southern California offers families earning $80,000 or less tuition-free attendance. This aid is for first-time, incoming students.

 

Colorado

The Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative provides matching funds for community scholarships to students who are experiencing financial need. There’s also a focus on those from underserved student populations. You must have a household income that doesn’t exceed 250% of the maximum permissible income for Pell Grants. Additionally, you must be enrolled in a student success program while attending a public vocational school, community college, research institution, or four-year college.

Other Colorado Programs:

• With the introduction of the Colorado Mountain Promise, Colorado Mountain College will cover tuition costs for any Colorado resident whose family income is below $70,000. For independent students (usually over 24 years of age), their tuition will be covered if their household income is $50,000 or less. The program operates by utilizing a combination of federal, state, and institutional funds to pay for tuition. After taking into account other programs like the Pell Grant, the college will cover the remaining balance.
• The Colorado Tuition Assistance Grant, offered by Colorado State University, guarantees grant funds from both state and university sources to cover at least 50% of the tuition cost. This is intended for eligible Colorado students who have a family Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $64,000 or less, and meet other eligibility requirements. If you qualify for a federal Pell Grant, you’ll receive additional grant funds from federal, state, and university sources, covering the full tuition cost and standard fees.

 

Connecticut

Pledge to Advance Connecticut is a program that provides a financial aid gap to eligible first-time, full-time college students in Connecticut. The program aims to cover the remaining cost of tuition fees after federal and state grants. To be eligible, students must be enrolled in a degree or certification program, complete the FAFSA, maintain good academic standing, and graduate from a Connecticut high school.

Another Option:

• New Haven Promise offers a yearly award to cover full tuition at a Connecticut public two-year or four-year college or university. However, make note that this is for students residing in New Haven and attending a New Haven public school.

 

 

Delaware

The Student Excellence Equals Degree (SEED) scholarship program is designed to provide tuition assistance to Delaware residents of all ages. Specifically those who are pursuing an undergraduate degree at the University of Delaware (their Associate in Arts program) or at Delaware Technical Community College. To qualify, you must enroll full-time for at least one semester and submit a FAFSA.

This program is available for up to 10 consecutive semesters. Students above the age of 25 must meet a five-year Delaware residency requirement. Undocumented students may apply, and priority is given to those with the most financial need. However, the scholarship is only available in the fall after a student graduates from high school. Students must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA. Additionally, you can’t receive the scholarship for more than six consecutive semesters. Note that you must reapply each year by April 1 for the following academic year.

 

Hawaii

The Hawai’i Promise Scholarship covers tuition for University of Hawai’i Community College in-state students who have financial need. This program also takes care of fees, along with providing funding for transportation, books, and supplies.

To qualify, you must complete the FAFSA and accept all applicable aid, enroll in at least six credit hours, and maintain satisfactory academic progress. This is a last-dollar, need-based scholarship that launched in the fall of 2017. It’s available for Hawaii residents or those with residency-exempt status who pay in-state tuition. Additionally, you must be degree-seeking in a financial-aid-eligible program and cannot possess a bachelor’s degree.

 

Illinois

The Macoupin Promise is committed to providing local residents with a college education without the debt. Families who make less than $60,000 a year and are graduates of a Macoupin County (IL) high school are eligible for free Illinois tuition to Blackburn College. Of course, this is only as long as you meet the admission requirements, which include being a first-time or transfer student.

Other Illinois Programs:

• As part of their Illinois Commitment, the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign offers free college tuition and fees for in-state students coming from households earning less than $67,100. The program covers all four years of college.
• Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Southwestern Illinois College offers eligible participants the opportunity to earn an associate’s degree or certificate at no cost to themselves. You’re eligible if you fit in one of these categories: unemployed, laid off, low income, juvenile justice involved, pregnant or parenting, homeless, runaway or in foster care, individuals with disabilities, and ages 16-24 who either finished high school or withdrew without a diploma. All tuition, fees, supplies, and books are paid for as long as adequate progress is being made towards the degree or certificate.

 

Indiana

If you live in Indiana and plan on attending a four-year, in-state school, you can receive a tuition waiver through the 21st Century Scholarship program. You must apply for the scholarship in either 7th or 8th grade and fulfill a 12-requirement pledge. Additionally, you must maintain a high school GPA of at least 2.5.

Another Option:

• The Next Level Jobs Workforce Ready Grant in Indiana covers tuition and mandatory fees for students pursuing programs at approved institutions. Some of these include Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana Institute of Technology, or Vincennes University. The grant covers up to two years of school or the required number of credits for those pursuing a certificate in fields like building and construction, health sciences, IT and business services, transportation and logistics, and advanced manufacturing.

 

Iowa

Iowa residents who graduate from high school and attend an eligible in-state institution within two years commencement are eligible for the All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship. The scholarship can be received for up to eight full-time semesters, with the scholarship amount adjusted annually.

It gives priority to students who have aged out of Iowa’s foster care system, children of deceased public safety workers, graduates from alternative high schools, and participants in specific statewide programs. You must complete the FAFSA, have an eligible expected family contribution, and enroll for at least three semester hours.

 

 

Kansas

Kansas-based Haskell Indian Nations University is an inter-tribal school that provides tuition-free education to Native American Indians and Alaska Natives from federally-recognized tribes. Fees like housing, student activities, and technology (equating to about $700 per semester) still need to be paid.

Other Kansas Programs:

• Barclay College is a four-year Quaker university. To qualify for their full-tuition scholarship (valued at $17,000 annually), you must pay room and board to live on campus (which is non-negotiable for those receiving free tuition). But after that, tuition is covered. You have to enroll full time and are responsible for all school fees. If you’re a graduate student, you can receive a discounted education through Barclay’s Graduate Leadership Scholarship program. This program grants up to $500 per semester to prospective Master of Arts students.
• The Kansas Promise Scholarship provides aid to Kansas residents who plan to attend an in-state community college or public technical school and enroll in a specific major. The scholarship is a “last dollar” program that covers the cost of tuition, fees, books, and other required materials after all other aid is applied.You must complete their program within 30 months. Additionally, you need to agree to live and work in Kansas for two consecutive years following their program. Read more about eligibility requirements here.

 

Kentucky

For those with a strong academic background and financial need, Berea College offers a Tuition Promise Scholarship that covers tuition after all federal, state, institutional, and private grants/scholarships have been considered. One of their admissions requirements is that you must be a first-time, degree-seeking student.

Other Kentucky Programs:

• The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship is designed to cover tuition and fees for students who are enrolled in programs leading to a certification, diploma, or Associate of Applied Science degree in sectors such as healthcare, advanced manufacturing, transportation/logistics, business services/IT or construction. Eligibility includes the maintenance of satisfactory academic progress for up to 60 credit hours or four academic terms. The scholarship is a “last-dollar” program. That means it covers the remaining cost of tuition and fees after all other grants and scholarships have been applied. More information is available here.
• The Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority has a number of financial aid programs like the Kentucky College Access Program (CAP) Grant, the Kentucky Tuition Grant, and the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship.

 

Louisiana

If you attend or plan to attend a Louisiana community or technical college, you may qualify for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS). It provides tuition-free college based on merit. Eligibility requirements include meeting the program’s high school GPA requirements and enrolling full-time in a postsecondary program. You must be a Louisiana resident to be eligible.

 

Maine

For eligible high school graduates, Maine’s Free College Scholarship may provide a tuition-free education for an in-state associate degree or one-year credential. To be considered, you must enroll full time, complete the FAFSA, and accept all state and federal grants and scholarships. Additionally, you’ll need to participate in academic planning and advising. The scholarship is offered for up to two years of community college and also covers mandatory fees.

 

Maryland

If you’re pursuing a qualifying program at a Maryland community college, the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship offers a last-dollar community college grant to eligible students. The scholarship covers up to $5,000 or the cost of tuition, whichever is less.

You’ll need to meet income requirements, maintain a GPA of at least 2.5 or 2.3, depending on your circumstances, and not have earned a bachelor’s or associate degree before. Additionally, you must not have received other grants or scholarships that cover the cost of attendance. The program requires you to complete a FAFSA or Maryland State Financial Aid Application (MSFAA) and be eligible for in-state tuition.

 

Massachusetts

To qualify for the MASSGrant Plus program, you must attend a qualifying in-state community college and have unmet financial need for tuition and fees. There’s a minimum enrollment of at least six credit hours. This program waives tuition costs for students with financial need who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree at a state university or specialized college. Full-time enrollment is required, and you must be receiving Pell Grant funds.

Another Option:

• All high school graduates residing in the city of Boston are eligible to apply for Boston Bridge, a tuition-free college program. It offers last-dollar, full-tuition coverage for associate degree programs and partial coverage for bachelor’s degree programs.

 

Michigan

Michigan Reconnect is a scholarship program for Michigan residents ages 25 and above. It covers tuition costs for attending an in-district community college. A high school diploma is required, and you must not have completed an associate or bachelor’s degree before. Additionally, you must participate in academic coaching or college success services to remain eligible. Attending an out-of-district community college and receiving a degree or skill certificate that isn’t covered by the Pell Grant aren’t included.

Another Option:

• All three University of Michigan campuses (Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint) are now offering free tuition for up to four years to students with specific requirements. You must be a high-achieving, full-time undergraduate student, Michigan residents, have a family income of $65,000 or below, and have assets under $50,000. The Go Blue Guarantee program initially launched at the Ann Arbor campus in 2018 and has now expanded to all three campuses.

 

Minnesota

The Minnesota Future Together Grant is available to students pursuing an associate degree in high-need career fields. These include health care, STEM, business, industry and technology, education or public service at public higher education institutions or Tribal Colleges. You must meet income requirements and can apply for the grant now through 2024 or until the funds are depleted.

 

Missouri

The College of the Ozarks will pay tuition for full-time students who complete 15 hours per week of on-campus work and two 40-hour weeks during the school year.

For this free tuition college breakdown you’ll see a combination of grants, the Tuition Assurance Scholarship, and work program credits that equal zero cash cost to you. Room and board, books, and other school fees are the only out-of-pocket expenses.

Another Option:

• Missouri residents who meet specific academic and income requirements can have their college tuition paid for by the A+ Scholarship Program. This renewable scholarship program provides funds to graduates of eligible Missouri high schools. However, they must attend participating public community colleges or vocational schools in the state.

You must maintain satisfactory academic progress, meet citizenship requirements, and perform at least 50 hours of unpaid tutoring or mentoring. Eligible high school students must attend a designated A+ high school for at least three years prior to graduation.

RELATED: Best Credit Cards for College Students Building Their Finances

 

Montana

The Montana University System has various tuition waiver programs for individuals such as:

• American Indian
• Veteran
• Montana National Guard member
• Honorably Discharged Veteran
• War Orphan
• Montana Firefighter or Peace Officer dependents or spouses
• National Merit Semi-Finalist Scholarship recipient

Another Option:

• The Montana Promise Act is a grant program for Montana residents who are attending a two-year college. It provides last-dollar funding for students who meet certain eligibility requirements. To qualify, you must be enrolled at least half-time in a community or tribal college in Montana. Alternatively, you can be enrolled in a two-year school in the Montana university system.In addition to residency and GPA requirements, you must not have earned an associate degree or completed more than 60 credit hours at any postsecondary institution. Moreover, you have to submit a FAFSA and accept all state and federal state aid grants available.

 

New Hampshire

If it’s your first time enrolling at the University of New Hampshire and you’re planning to attend full time, you may qualify for full tuition coverage. Sweet, huh? The school’s Granite Guarantee program provides a free education for up to four years.

Eligible students will need to qualify for the Pell Grant, which is for students with financial need. Plus, if you’re transferring from a Community College System of New Hampshire school, you can qualify for two years of tuition-free learning.

 

New Jersey

If you dream of attending Rutgers University, there’s a chance you have a shot at reduced tuition and fees. Rutgers-New Brunswick, Rutgers-Newark, and Rutgers-Camden offer financial aid programs that guarantee free tuition and mandatory fees for eligible New Jersey students. Your family adjusted gross income must be below $65,000.

For those with a family adjusted gross income between $65,001 and $100,000, the programs offer significantly reduced tuition and fees. These programs are in combination with the state’s Garden State Guarantee to provide “last dollars” needed to cover in-state tuition and mandatory fees for four years.

Another Option:

• The Community College Opportunity Grant provides “last dollar” funding after other financial aid has been applied to New Jersey community colleges. To qualify for this grant, you must have a total household adjusted gross income under $65,000 as indicated on their FAFSA, maintain satisfactory academic progress, and enroll in at least six credit hours per semester. The grant was introduced for the 2021-22 academic year and only fully covers tuition for attending an in-district community college.

 

New Mexico

New Mexico’s Opportunity Scholarship provides free tuition at any public college or university in the state for students seeking an associate degree or credit-bearing certificate. Obviously, you must be a New Mexico resident, along with maintaining a 2.5 GPA and enrolling in at least six credit hours per semester. The scholarship is a “first-dollar” program, allowing federal aid to be applied towards living expenses or other costs. Full-time enrollment is required.

 

New York

Eight City University of New York (CUNY) colleges participate in the William E. Macaulay Honors Program. It awards students who meet CUNY New York State residency requirements and have outstanding academic records with full tuition coverage. Plus, there’s access to other grants. You’ll need to complete the FAFSA and file a New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application.

Other New York Programs:

• The Webb Institute in New York will teach you how to build ships for free, then place you in a job. The school offers naval architecture and marine engineering programs. It awards full-tuition scholarships (valued at $200,000) to students, but you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. You’ll just have to pay for books and fees.
• The Excelsior Scholarship provides tuition-free college education at all two-year SUNY and CUNY institutions for full-time residents of New York who meet the income eligibility criteria. You also must commit to living in New York for the same number of years you receive the scholarship. They require enrollment of at least 12 credits per term. On top of that, you have to complete a minimum of 30 credits per year.

 

Nevada

The Nevada Promise Scholarship provides Nevada residents under 20 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent the opportunity to attend one of four community colleges in the state at a reduced cost. The scholarship covers registration and other mandatory fees not covered by other financial aid, for up to three years.

After you complete the scholarship application, you’ll apply for admission at a participating community college. Then, file a FAFSA and complete two mandatory informational trainings. Applicants must provide proof of 20 hours of community service, complete at least one mentoring opportunity, and meet satisfactory academic progress requirements.

Another Option:

• At the University of Nevada, the Nevada Guarantee program provides eligible undergrads with gift aid, including grants and scholarships. This covers registration, mandatory fees, and books for four years, as long as satisfactory academic progress is made.The program is available to Nevada residents pursuing an undergraduate degree who come from low-income families, are full-time students, and meet other requirements. Some of these include being a Pell Grant recipient or eligible, pursuing one bachelor’s degree, and submitting the FAFSA or Institutional Methodology form. The program also provides academic and social support through the First in the Pack Program.

 

North Carolina

Warren Wilson College is a work college that has a North Carolina Free Tuition Plan for in-state students enrolling for the first time as undergraduates. In addition, you must enroll full time, work at least eight hours per week, and establish a craft (e.g., gardening or tutoring). You also need to show that you’re qualified for state or federal financial aid, like Pell Grants. If your family earns less than $125,000 per year, Warren Wilson College also has a Milepost One scholarship program.

Another Option:

• To help cover the cost of tuition at any of North Carolina’s community colleges, the Longleaf Commitment Grant Program offers up to $2,800 per year for two years to eligible students. This eligibility includes an expected family contribution less than $15,000. You must enroll in a North Carolina community college and take at least six credit hours each semester.

 

Ohio

Like many other colleges with free tuition, the Antioch College Works program offers full-tuition, last-dollar scholarships to students who qualify for the Federal Pell Grant. The scholarship covers what the Pell Grant doesn’t. This special financial aid is only for undergraduate students who have financial need and haven’t previously earned a college degree.

If you attend the Ohio-based liberal arts college, you must also work on campus. You’re responsible for meal plan and boarding costs (though you could apply for additional grants to cover them). But, you could get all four years paid for if you maintain grades and eligibility.

Other Ohio Programs:

• Ohio’s College Credit Plus lets high school students earn both college and high school credits simultaneously by taking college courses from community colleges or universities. The program is free for public school students in Ohio, including tuition, books, and fees. Private school and homeschool students may have limited costs. You can take courses from any college that offers one that aligns with your future goals, including online courses.
• The Ohio AFL-CIO Free College Benefit allows Ohio AFL-CIO members, retired Ohio AFL-CIO members, and their family members to obtain an associate degree online from a public, accredited community college without having to pay any out-of-pocket expenses. These expenses include tuition, fees, or books that are not covered by federal or employer education grants.
• If you’ve earned a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative GPA, Ohio University may help with the cost of college through their Ohio Admission Promise award program. After completing an application and FAFSA, you’ll need to enroll as a full-time, first-year student on the Ohio State University-Athens campus.

 

Oklahoma

The Oklahoma Promise program offers free tuition at Oklahoma’s public two-year colleges or four-year universities. It will also cover a portion of tuition at private universities or public technology centers. Eligible students must be Oklahoma residents in 8th, 9th or 10th grade, have a family income of $60,000 or less, and meet certain academic requirements. The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition at public two-year colleges after other financial aid is applied, and up to the cost of tuition at public four-year universities.

 

Oregon

The Oregon Promise Grant awards free college tuition to recent high school students who have a 2.0 GPA or higher or received 145 on their GED. The grant covers tuition costs at local community colleges, but high schoolers must apply during their senior year.

You need to maintain at least half-time enrollment and accept all state and federal grant aid offered through the college’s financial aid office. The grant covers up to 12 credits per term and a maximum of 90 credits attempted.

Another Option:

• Beginning in fall 2023, eligible students currently receiving Four Years Free or Transfers Finish Free funding at Portland State University will be automatically transitioned to the Tuition-Free Degree program. This program aims to make the most affordable research university in Oregon even more so by providing free tuition for four years to qualifying students.

 

Pennsylvania

Are you a classical musician and/or vocalist? If you claim one of the 150 competitive spots at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, you’ll train as an orchestra musician, opera singer, or composer for free.

The school offers merit-based, full-tuition scholarships (with a value of at least $48,000), for both undergraduate and graduate students. The funding covers general educational expenses and must be renewed annually. Most of these graduates go on to earn a spot in the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Other Pennsylvania Programs:

• Students with a family income of $110,000 or less are eligible for the Pennsylvania Promise. It offers grants of at least $1,000 per year for two years to community college students. They also offer a minimum of $2,500 per year for four years to Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Schools and state-related institutions.
• If you’ve earned an associate degree from an accredited community college in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, Drexel University’s Drexel Promise scholarship covers 50% of tuition cost. It can be renewed as you work towards a bachelor’s degree at Drexel. Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria and receive an offer of acceptance from the school can receive the scholarship. To continue to receive the award, full-time enrollment is required along with a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.

 

Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Promise Scholarship offers free tuition and payment of mandatory fees for two years at the Community College of Rhode Island. This is open to new high school graduates and GED recipients who graduated from high school in or after 2017.

The scholarship covers last dollars from tuition and fee costs not covered by the Pell Grant and other aid. To qualify, you must be a Rhode Island resident and maintain a GPA of at least 2.5. Additionally, you need to earn 30 credits each academic year, and enroll full-time for every fall and spring semester for two years.

 

South Carolina

Residents of South Carolina enrolled in a high-demand field of study, such as healthcare, construction, or education, are eligible for the South Carolina Workforce Scholarship. The scholarship covers tuition and required fees at any of the state’s 16 technical colleges. To qualify, you must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and fulfill one of the following requirements: employment, completion of a financial literacy course, or completion of 100 hours of voluntary work for a nonprofit or public service organization.

 

South Dakota

Build Dakota is a scholarship program that covers tuition, fees, books, and other expenses for technical institute programs in South Dakota. In-state and out-of-state students can qualify if they attend one of four technical institutes. You have to demonstrate aptitude through work-based learning, coursework, or industry-recognized certification. Recipients must live and work in the state for three years after graduation and enroll in a high-need program as a first-time student.

 

Tennessee

Adults who don’t have an associate’s degree or technical certificate can attend an eligible community college or four-year university in Tennessee for free. How? Thanks to the Tennessee Reconnect grant program.

The grant doesn’t cover all of your tuition and fees — it’s capped at a specific figure. The amount the program provides is the difference between any financial aid you receive and the capped amount. To maintain the grant, you must attend school full time (at least six hours per semester), keep a 2.0 GPA, and finish the program within five years.

Another Option:

• Tennessee Promise is a scholarship program for in-state high school graduates attending an eligible two-year college,. It covers tuition and fees not already paid by other state grants. Eight hours of community service per term and satisfactory academic progress are required. Recipients are assigned a mentor to help with the college application process. Eligible students must be Tennessee residents and graduate from an eligible high school. Alternatively, you need to obtain an equivalency diploma before the age of 19.

 

Texas

At Texas State University, the Bobcat Promise program offers free tuition and fees for eligible Texas residents from low-income families. To qualify, you must be first-time freshmen, Texas residents, have a family adjusted gross income of $50,000 or less, be enrolled full-time, and submit a completed FAFSA by March 15.

To remain eligible, a 2.0 GPA must be maintained, you must complete at least 15 credit hours per semester, meet the institutional and program-specific SAP requirements, and continue to have a family adjusted gross income of $50,000 or less.

 

Vermont

The 802 Opportunity Grant, through The Community College of Vermont, allows Vermont residents with a family income of less than $75,000 to attend the college tuition-free. Additionally, the grant covers the college’s administrative fee of $100. A FAFSA application and consistent satisfactory academic progress are required.

 

Virginia

If your dream is to build ships and money is tight, a trip to Newport News, Virginia may be in the cards. The Apprentice School is tuition free, but you have to work for that advantage. Students — or apprentices — are “hired” into the program as full-time workers. You receive on-the-job training along with completing trade theory classes. However, you can choose from 27 skilled trade programs. On average, the apprenticeship lasts four to five years, resulting in a certificate or an associate’s degree.

Another Option:

• The G3 program in Virginia provides last-dollar tuition assistance for residents pursuing high-demand career fields at in-state community colleges. Eligible students must have a family income of no more than 400% of the federal poverty level, enroll in at least six credits per semester, and maintain satisfactory academic progress. The designated programs are early childhood education, healthcare, information technology, public safety, and skilled trades.

 

Washington

The Washington College Grant provides financial assistance to Washington state residents enrolled at least part-time in eligible programs. It covers tuition fees, building fees, and services and activities fees at public two-year and four-year colleges. The award amount is determined based on median family income, which can be obtained through the FAFSA or a state student aid application. Students from families with up to 100% of Washington’s median family income may qualify for the grant at public four-year colleges.

Another Option:

• Washington’s College Bound Scholarship covers the average tuition cost at over 65 in-state institutions. Eligibility for the program is automatic for in-state 7th, 8th, and 9th grade students who qualify for free or reduced lunch. However, to maintain eligibility, you must meet the residency requirements. You also need to have a minimum 2.0 GPA upon high school graduation

 

West Virginia

The West Virginia Invests Grant Program covers the entire cost of tuition and mandatory fees for certificate or degree programs in eligible high-demand fields at public two- or four-year institutions. Applicants must be West Virginia residents for at least one year prior to applying. You also need to pass a drug screening each academic year and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Lastly, it’s required to live in West Virginia for at least two years after earning a degree.

At least two hours of approved community service per term are required and you must enroll for at least six credit hours per semester. Equally important, you can’t have defaulted on student loans. The grant program gives priority to students studying in high-demand fields. Students must submit a FAFSA and a separate online application for consideration. If students leave the state before fulfilling the two-year residency requirement, they must repay the grant with interest and fees.

 

Wyoming

The University of Wyoming’s Hathaway Scholarship program offers four different merit-based awards ranging from $840 to $1,680 per semester. This is based on the student’s high school GPA. The scholarship can be supplemented with need-based scholarships to cover the entire cost of the degree. Take note that the minimum requirement to qualify for the scholarship is a high school GPA of 2.5. If you receive the scholarship, you must maintain satisfactory academic progress, with a minimum GPA of either 2.25 or 2.5, depending on the scholarship.

 

Get free college tuition at Ivy League schools if your household meets income requirements.

An Ivy League education is great for your resume, but not so much for your wallet. These Ivy league universities will pay for your education if your family makes less than a certain household income. And you get accepted, of course. By the way, free doesn’t mean that you won’t pay for anything. Other expenses like books, lab fees, transportation, orientation costs, equipment, school supplies, and activity fees still need to be paid.

Brown University

• Families must have total incomes less than $125,000 per year
• Covers tuition, room, board, and books

Columbia University

• Families must have total incomes less than $150,000 per year
• Covers tuition, room, board, and fees
• Low-income, first-year students receive a $2,000 start-up grant for move-in expenses

Cornell University

• Families must have total incomes less than $60,000 per year
• Covers tuition, room, board, and fees

Dartmouth College

• Families must have total incomes less than $125,000 per year (covers tuition)

Harvard University

• Families must have total incomes less than $85,000 per year
• Covers tuition, room, board, and fees
• First-year students receive a $2,000 start-up grant for move-in expenses

Princeton University

• Families must have total incomes less than $65,000 per year
• Grant covers tuition, room, and board

University of Pennsylvania

• Families must have total incomes less than $65,500 per year
• Covers tuition, room, board, and fees

Yale University

• Families must have total incomes less than $75,000 per year
• Families with an annual income of up to $75,000 – $200,000/year contribute a percentage of their income, based on a sliding scale

 

Other tuition-free universities that aren’t Ivy League, but are still prestigious, include:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

• Families must have total incomes less than $65,000 per year
• Covers tuition, room, board, fees, books, supplies, and includes $608 for personal expenses

Stanford University

• Families must have total incomes less than $150,000 per year
• Covers tuition, room, and board

Most graduate degree programs provide financial assistance in the form of fellowships, grants, work study, and assistantships. With all of these financial aid options, you should also find out how to get free back-to-school supplies.

 

Alice Lloyd College offers free college tuition to residents of 108 Appalachian counties.

via Facebook

Alice Lloyd College is one of many colleges with free tuition, but you have to live in the right place to get it. Students living in one of the 108 counties throughout Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, or West Virginia can get a free, four-year college education through Alice Lloyd.

The catch? You need to work 10 – 20 hours per week on campus through the school’s Student Work Program. The college encourages you to apply for state and federal financial aid to cover other expenses.

 

Get a free education at one of the U.S. Military Academies.

You’ll need to go through a fairly competitive selection process that includes a congressional recommendation, and both physical and academic evaluations. But the education you’ll receive at one of the U.S. Military Academies is top notch. While the education is free, you’ll need to agree to serve for at least four years in your selected branch of the military upon graduation.

Here are a few military schools you can attend for free once you’ve been accepted:

Air Force Academy

• No tuition or room and board fees
• Cadets need to serve at least eight years post-graduation

Coast Guard Academy

• No tuition or room and board fees
• Cadets need to serve at least five years post-graduation

United States Merchant Marine Academy

• No book, uniform, room and board fees
• Midshipmen need to serve at least five years post-graduation

U.S. Military Academy (West Point)

• No tuition or room and board fees
• Cadets need to serve at least eight years post-graduation
• Each semester, must serve on a sports team

U.S. Naval Academy

• No book, uniform, room and board fees
• Midshipmen need to serve at least five years post-graduation