Calling All Students: These 5 Places Offer Free College

It’s no secret that college is pricey and only getting more expensive. Those who do take out loans to make college possible end up with student debt coming out of their ears (trust me, I would know!). In fact, according to cnbc.com , U.S. citizens hold a staggering $1.31 trillion dollars in student loan debt.

Fortunately, times are a changin’ for the better. College tuition has become a hot topic in recent years, with several places finding ways to make college more affordable – even free – for many. So grab those number two pencils and backpacks! Here are several places (five states plus one city) where you can go to college free-of-charge. You’re welcome!

New York

This year, New York became the first state to offer tuition-free four-year college with their newly announced accessible college program: The Excelsior Scholarship . According to the State’s website , this “groundbreaking program” will help more than 940,000 middle-class families and individuals attend college at all CUNY and SUNY two and four year colleges in the State of New York. The program will begin in the fall of 2023 and will be phased in over the course of three years.

To apply for The Excelsior Scholarship, students must: be residents of New York State; attend a SUNY or CUNY two or four year degree program; take 30 credits per calendar year (including January and summer sessions); and plan to live and work in New York following graduation for the length of time they participate in the scholarship program.

San Francisco, CA

Those hoping to go to college for free will find it possible in San Francisco. In February 2023, the Mayor of San Francisco announced that the “City by the Bay” would begin offering free City College tuition to residents regardless of need, as reported by cnbc.com . This news makes San Francisco the first city in the U.S. to offer free college. Anyone who has lived in the city for at least a year can qualify for this free college opportunity.

According to City College of San Francisco’s website , the public college currently serves 70,000 students annually. The college offers courses in more than 50 academic programs and over 100 occupational disciplines. Currently, the community college charges California residents $46 per credit.

Cnbc.com reports that the deal is expected to begin in the fall of 2023, and will also provide “full-time low-income students who already receive fee waivers from the state $250 per semester” for books, transportation and various costs.

As one of America’s most beloved cities, this metropolitan area is a fabulous place to call home. The bustling urban environment and its surrounding areas offer a thriving job market, top restaurants, arts and entertainment, as well as plenty of culture. Recently, San Francisco was named the fourth happiest place to live in America, and the 34th best city in the U.S. for job seekers. AreaVibes also gives high marks to San Francisco for its stable housing market, high income per capita, weather and A+ amenities. The estimated population is $860,000, making San Francisco the fourth most populous city in California. The median listing price for a home in San Francisco is $1.2M, according to Realtor.com .

Tennessee

Thinking of moving to Tennessee? If so, you could go to college for free. The state currently offers the Tennessee Promise program, in which high school grads who enroll in a community college or technical school are granted free tuition and fees. Now, the state is going one step further. CNN Money reports that in May 2023 state lawmakers approved legislation that will expand the program to include adults seeking an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. The program is expected to begin in the Fall of 2023.

CNN Money reports that In order to be eligible, “students must have been a state resident for at least one year, maintained a 2.0 GPA, enrolled in enough classes to be a part-time student, and completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.”

Oregon

Those moving to and living in the State of Oregon can go to community college for free through the Oregon Promise program. The program is a state grant that covers tuition at any Oregon community college for recent high school graduates and GED recipients.

To be eligible for the current program in place, students: must complete an Oregon Promise Grant Application; be a recent Oregon high school graduate or GED recipient; have at least a 2.5 cumulative high school GPA or higher or a GED score of 145 or higher; plan to attend at least half-time at an Oregon community college within 6 months of high school graduation or GED completion; be an Oregon resident for at least 12 months prior to attendance; File a FAFSA or ORSAA application; must not have more than 90 college credits completed or attempted.

Minnesota

Looking for that Midwestern charm? You’ll find that plus free college tuition in qualifying career and technical programs at MnSCU two-year colleges. Created by the 2015 Minnesota Legislature, the MnSCU Two-Year Occupational Grant Pilot Program covers tuition and fees for students after other state and federal funding are considered. The program’s goal is to provide financial assistance so that students can complete the program within two years or less and find employment in a high-demand field.

To be eligible for the current program in place, students must: meet the definition of a Minnesota resident used for state financial aid programs; participate in free mentoring services throughout the student’s academic program; have tuition and fee charges not fully covered by Pell and State Grants; have an adjusted gross income of $90,000 or less; and begin enrollment in a qualifying program at a MnSCU two-year college immediately following high school graduation or passing a GED test.

Tip: Plan ahead of time what you’ll pack with this college dorm list

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