States with free community college programs

As of October 2024, more than 30 states offer programs that provide free community college tuition, including California, New York, Washington, Tennessee, and Oregon. This growing movement aims to make higher education more accessible and affordable. For families and students navigating the high cost of college, these programs can dramatically reduce out-of-pocket expenses and the need for student loan debt. However, “free” typically covers tuition and mandatory fees, not other essential costs like books, supplies, transportation, or housing.

These programs, often called “Promise” programs, represent a significant shift in state-level financial aid. They are designed to boost college enrollment, improve workforce development, and provide a clear pathway to a degree or certificate without the initial financial burden of tuition. Understanding how these programs work is the first step toward leveraging this powerful opportunity to lower the overall cost of a college education.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll explore the complete list of states with these programs, compare their key features, and explain the specific eligibility requirements you’ll need to meet. You’ll also learn how to apply and what it takes to maintain your benefits once enrolled, ensuring you can make an informed decision for your financial future.

By the end of this guide, you will be able to identify which states offer free community college, understand the common eligibility rules, and find the resources needed to apply.

Context: how free community college works

Free community college initiatives, often called “Promise Programs,” are state-level financial aid programs designed to cover the cost of tuition and mandatory fees for eligible students. They are not a single federal program but a collection of unique state laws. Understanding how they operate is crucial, as the details can significantly impact your overall costs. Most of these programs function as either “first-dollar” or “last-dollar” aid.

A first-dollar program covers your tuition costs upfront, before any other financial aid is applied. This is the most generous model because it allows you to use other awards, like federal Pell Grants or scholarships, to pay for non-tuition expenses such as books, transportation, and housing. In contrast, a last-dollar program, which is more common, pays for any tuition and fee costs that remain after all other federal and state grant aid has been applied. If your grants already cover your full tuition, a last-dollar program may not provide any additional funding.

Because of this, nearly every state requires applicants to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal grants that must be applied first under a last-dollar model. Common eligibility themes across most states include maintaining state residency, being a recent high school graduate (though some programs target adult learners), and enrolling at least part-time. With this framework in mind, let’s explore which states offer these valuable programs.

States with free community college: complete list

The number of states offering tuition-free community college has grown significantly, providing a valuable pathway to higher education for millions. According to the Campaign for Free College Tuition, more than 30 states had active programs as of October 2024. These programs vary widely, from statewide initiatives covering all community colleges to more targeted grants for specific fields of study or adult learners. Below is a comprehensive list of states with Promise-style programs to help you identify potential opportunities in your area.

Keep in mind that “statewide” indicates broad availability, but specific eligibility rules still apply. “Last-dollar” programs cover remaining tuition after other grants are used, while “first-dollar” programs pay first, letting you use other aid for different costs.

• Arkansas: Arkansas Future Grant (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• California: California College Promise Grant (Statewide, First-Dollar for fee waivers)
• Connecticut: Pledge to Advance Connecticut (PACT) (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Delaware: Student Excellence Equals Degree (SEED) (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Georgia: HOPE Career Grant (Statewide, Last-Dollar, for specific fields)
• Hawaii: Hawaii Promise Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Indiana: 21st Century Scholars & Workforce Ready Grant (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Iowa: Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Kansas: Kansas Promise Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar, for specific fields)
• Kentucky: Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar, for specific fields)
• Louisiana: M.J. Foster Promise Program (Statewide, Last-Dollar, for adult learners in specific fields)
• Maine: Free College Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Maryland: Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Massachusetts: MassReconnect (Statewide, Last-Dollar, for adults 25+)
• Michigan: Michigan Reconnect & Michigan Achievement Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Minnesota: North Star Promise Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Mississippi: Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG) & HELP Grant (Statewide, Last-Dollar options)
• Missouri: A+ Scholarship Program (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Montana: Montana Promise Grant (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Nevada: Nevada Promise Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• New Hampshire: New Hampshire Promise (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• New Jersey: Community College Opportunity Grant (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• New Mexico: Opportunity Scholarship (Statewide, First-Dollar)
• New York: Excelsior Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar, for 2- and 4-year colleges)
• North Carolina: Longleaf Commitment Grant (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Oklahoma: Oklahoma’s Promise (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Oregon: Oregon Promise (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Rhode Island: Rhode Island Promise (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• South Carolina: SC WINS Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar, for specific fields)
• South Dakota: Build Dakota Scholarship (Statewide, Last-Dollar, for technical colleges)
• Tennessee: Tennessee Promise (Statewide, Last-Dollar)
• Virginia: G3 Program (Get a Skill, Get a Job, Get Ahead) (Statewide, Last-Dollar, for specific fields)
• Washington: Washington College Grant (Statewide, sliding scale grant that can function as first-dollar aid)
• West Virginia: West Virginia Invests Grant (Statewide, Last-Dollar)

These programs directly reduce the amount of money families and students need to pay out-of-pocket or finance through loans. According to Mark Kantrowitz, financial aid expert, “Every dollar you save is a dollar less you have to borrow.” This principle is at the heart of Promise programs, which aim to make a college credential accessible without a heavy debt burden. While this list gives you a starting point, understanding the differences between each program is the next critical step.

Compare programs at a glance

While the list above shows how many states offer these valuable programs, the details can make a significant difference in how much financial benefit you receive. Key factors like the funding model (first-dollar vs. last-dollar), who is eligible, and how long the benefits last vary widely. To help you compare these options more easily, the table below highlights the features of several prominent free community college programs across the country. Use it to quickly identify which programs might align with your personal circumstances, whether you are a recent high school graduate or an adult returning to school.

Source: Campaign for Free College Tuition and official state program websites as of October 2024.

As the table illustrates, a program that works perfectly for a recent high school graduate in Tennessee might not be available to an adult learner in the same state. Likewise, a generous first-dollar program in New Mexico provides a different type of financial support than a last-dollar program in Oregon. Understanding these distinctions is key to maximizing your financial aid. Now that you have a high-level comparison, the next critical step is to explore the detailed qualification rules that determine if you can access these benefits.

Eligibility requirements: what you need to qualify

While each state program has its own unique rules, most share a common set of eligibility requirements. Understanding these criteria is the first step to determining if you qualify for tuition-free college. These requirements generally fall into five key areas: residency, financial need, academic standing, enrollment status, and your educational background. Before diving into the details, use this checklist as a starting point to see if you meet the typical qualifications.

Nearly every program requires you to be a legal resident of the state offering the aid. This is typically verified by showing you have lived in the state for at least 12 consecutive months prior to enrolling. States may also accept graduation from an in-state high school as proof of residency. You’ll likely need to provide documentation such as a state-issued ID, tax returns, or utility bills to confirm your status.

Completing the FAFSA is almost always a mandatory step. For last-dollar programs, this is non-negotiable because the state needs to know how much federal aid (like the Pell Grant) you qualify for before it calculates its own award. Many states also have income thresholds. For example, according to the Maryland Higher Education Commission as of October 2024, the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship is limited to applicants with an adjusted gross income of $100,000 or less for single individuals or $150,000 for joint filers. Always check the specific income caps for your state’s program.

Most programs require you to have earned a high school diploma or a GED. Some may have a minimum high school GPA requirement, often around 2.0 or 2.5, to qualify. Once enrolled, you will need to maintain a certain GPA to keep your funding, a topic we cover in the next section. You must also enroll in an eligible degree or certificate program at a qualifying public community or technical college. While many programs allow for part-time enrollment (at least 6 credit hours), some may require you to be a full-time student (12 or more credit hours).

Eligibility can also depend on your age and when you graduated from high school. Many “Promise” programs, like the Tennessee Promise and Oregon Promise, are specifically designed for recent high school graduates. However, a growing number of states are creating programs for adult learners. For instance, Michigan Reconnect and Massachusetts’ MassReconnect are targeted at residents 21+ or 25+ who are returning to school to earn their first college degree. It’s essential to check if your state’s program is geared toward traditional-aged students, adult learners, or both.

Once you’ve determined you meet these core requirements, the next step is to prepare your application materials and navigate the submission process.

How to apply for free community college

Applying for a free community college program is a multi-step process that requires careful attention to deadlines and details. The journey typically begins in the fall of your senior year of high school, aligning with the opening of the FAFSA. Success hinges on completing both federal and state applications correctly and on time. Following a clear plan can help families and students navigate the process smoothly and secure their tuition-free benefits.

While the exact steps can vary by state, most programs follow a similar application sequence. Here is the general process you can expect to follow:

1. Complete the FAFSA: This is the most critical first step. Nearly all free community college programs require you to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as it becomes available. For last-dollar programs, the FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal grants like the Pell Grant, which must be applied to your tuition first. Be sure to list at least one eligible in-state community college on your FAFSA.
2. Submit the State-Specific Application: After the FAFSA, you will likely need to complete a separate application for your state’s Promise program. This is usually found on the website of your state’s higher education or student assistance agency. This application confirms your intent to use the program and verifies state-specific eligibility criteria, such as residency.
3. Gather and Provide Necessary Documents: Be prepared to submit supporting documentation. This may include your final high school transcript to verify your GPA and graduation date, proof of state residency (like a driver’s license or utility bill), and any other materials requested by the state agency or your college.
4. Accept Your Offer and Enroll: Once your applications are processed and approved, you will receive an official financial aid offer from your college. You must formally accept the Promise scholarship or grant through your college’s student portal by the specified deadline. Finally, you must enroll in an eligible degree or certificate program, meeting the minimum credit hour requirement.

A simple error can jeopardize your eligibility. Be sure to avoid these common pitfalls:

• Missing Deadlines: State Promise programs have strict deadlines for both the FAFSA and the state application. Mark these dates on your calendar.
• Incomplete Applications: Double-check that all fields on your FAFSA and state application are filled out completely and accurately.
• Ignoring Verification Requests: Some students are selected for FAFSA verification, which requires submitting extra financial documents. Respond to these requests from your college’s financial aid office immediately.

Successfully navigating the application process is a major accomplishment. However, receiving the award is just the beginning; you’ll also need to meet ongoing requirements to keep it. For a detailed walkthrough of the federal aid application, check out our comprehensive FAFSA guide.

Maintaining your benefits: GPA and other requirements

Securing a free community college scholarship is a major achievement, but keeping it requires consistent effort and attention to program rules. These benefits are not a one-time award; they are conditional and must be earned each semester. The most common requirements revolve around maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), which includes your GPA and the number of credits you complete.

Most programs require you to maintain a minimum GPA, typically a 2.0, which is equivalent to a C average. Falling below this threshold can put you on academic probation for a semester, and if your grades don’t improve, you could lose your funding entirely. For example, the Tennessee Promise program requires students to maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to remain eligible. You will also need to stay continuously enrolled, usually for both the fall and spring semesters, and complete a minimum number of credit hours each term—often at least 6 for part-time students and 12 for full-time.

Beyond academics, some programs have additional stipulations. The Tennessee Promise, for instance, requires students to complete eight hours of community service per term and attend mandatory meetings. You must also remember to renew your FAFSA every year by the deadline to demonstrate ongoing financial need and re-qualify for both federal and state aid. These programs are also time-limited, typically covering up to five semesters or until you earn your associate degree, whichever comes first.

If you fail to meet a requirement, don’t panic. Many programs have a formal appeals process where you can explain extenuating circumstances. Some may also offer a path to regain eligibility after you pay for a semester on your own and bring your academic standing back into compliance. Meeting these requirements is crucial for keeping tuition costs covered, but as you plan your budget, it’s important to understand what these programs don’t pay for.

What’s not covered: planning for additional costs

While Promise programs eliminate the significant burden of tuition, “free tuition” does not mean a completely free college experience. Students and families must still plan for several essential out-of-pocket expenses that these scholarships do not cover. Understanding these additional costs is crucial for creating a realistic budget and avoiding financial surprises down the road.

These non-tuition costs can add up quickly. Key expenses to plan for include:

• Books and Supplies: Textbooks, notebooks, and other course materials are rarely covered. According to the College Board, the average budget for books and supplies at a public two-year college was $1,310 for the 2023-2024 academic year.
• Transportation: Whether you’re driving to campus, paying for parking permits, or using public transit, transportation is a significant recurring cost for commuter students.
• Living Expenses: Even while living at home, you’ll have personal expenses, including food, clothing, and cell phone bills.
• Technology and Fees: Some courses require specific software, lab equipment, or other supplemental fees that fall outside of standard tuition.

To prepare, review your prospective college’s official Cost of Attendance (COA) breakdown on its financial aid website. This will provide a detailed estimate of these non-tuition expenses. Once you have a clear picture of the funding gap, you can explore ways to cover it, such as through savings, part-time work, or additional financial aid. Searching for scholarships for living expenses can also help fill these gaps.

If a gap remains, student loans can be a practical tool to ensure you have the resources to succeed. According to Sandy Baum, education policy expert, “Borrowing is not inherently bad; the question is how much, and under what terms.” After exhausting federal loan options, private student loans can help cover remaining costs. You can compare rates from multiple lenders to find a responsible option that fits your budget. With a clear plan for these extra costs, you can make the most of your tuition-free program. Now, let’s address some other common questions.

Frequently asked questions

Navigating the details of free community college programs can bring up many specific questions. Below are answers to some of the most common inquiries to help clarify your eligibility and options.

While we covered this earlier, it’s a crucial distinction. A first-dollar program pays for your tuition upfront, before any other financial aid is applied. This allows you to use other grants, like the federal Pell Grant, for non-tuition costs like books or transportation. A last-dollar program, which is more common, covers any remaining tuition and fees only after you’ve applied all other federal and state grants.

Yes, absolutely. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a mandatory requirement for nearly every state program. It determines your eligibility for federal aid that must be used first under the last-dollar model. It also serves as the primary tool for states to verify your financial need, which can be an eligibility factor for some programs.

Yes. While many original Promise programs targeted recent high school graduates, a growing number of states have created initiatives specifically for adult learners returning to school. Programs like Michigan Reconnect (for residents 21 and older) and MassReconnect (for residents 25 and older) are designed to help adults earn their first college credential tuition-free. Always check the specific age and educational history requirements for your state.

In many cases, yes. Most programs require students to enroll at least part-time, which is typically defined as taking a minimum of six credit hours per semester. However, some programs may require full-time enrollment (12 or more credit hours) to receive the full benefit. It’s essential to verify the enrollment requirements for your specific state program to ensure you remain eligible.

Many programs do cover certificate programs, especially those designed to prepare students for high-demand jobs. States like Georgia, Virginia, and Kentucky have grants that specifically target technical certificates in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and IT. Before enrolling, confirm that your chosen certificate is on your state’s list of approved programs.

If your state doesn’t offer a Promise program, you still have options to lower costs. Start by completing the FAFSA to see if you qualify for the federal Pell Grant, which can cover a significant portion of community college tuition and does not need to be repaid. Additionally, contact your college’s financial aid office to ask about institutional grants and scholarships, and search for outside scholarships from local organizations.

Free community college programs can be a game-changer, making a college degree more accessible and affordable than ever. By understanding how these programs work and what is required, you can significantly reduce your education costs and limit student loan debt. As you move forward, keep these key points in mind to make the most of this opportunity.

• Program details vary widely: Over 30 states offer programs, but they differ significantly in their funding models (first-dollar vs. last-dollar), eligibility rules, and coverage.
• The FAFSA is essential: Completing the FAFSA is nearly always the first and most critical step, as it determines your eligibility for both federal and state aid.
• “Free tuition” isn’t free college: Always budget for non-tuition costs like books, supplies, transportation, and living expenses, which are typically not covered.
• Maintaining eligibility is key: You must meet ongoing requirements, such as maintaining a minimum GPA and continuous enrollment, to keep your funding each semester.

If your state offers a program, your next step is to visit its official website to confirm deadlines and specific application requirements. If your state doesn’t, focus on maximizing other forms of aid like federal Pell Grants and local scholarships.

For any remaining funding gaps, private student loans can be a useful tool after you’ve exhausted federal options. It’s important to remember that private loans lack the flexible repayment options and forgiveness programs offered by federal loans. Most undergraduate students will need a creditworthy cosigner to qualify, and lenders will perform a hard credit check during the application process. As of October 2024, comparing multiple lenders is the best way to secure a competitive interest rate.

Ready to explore your options for covering remaining costs? Compare rates from 8+ lenders to find a plan that works for your family’s budget. For additional information, explore the resources below.

References and resources

For more detailed information on specific programs and financial aid, consult these authoritative resources. They provide up-to-date details on eligibility, application deadlines, and covered costs.

• Campaign for Free College Tuition: A national organization that tracks the latest developments and provides a comprehensive overview of Promise programs across all states.
• Federal Student Aid: The official U.S. government resource for completing the FAFSA, understanding federal Pell Grants, and exploring all federal financial aid options.
• AACC College Finder: An official tool from the American Association of Community Colleges to help you locate eligible institutions in your area.