Texas-based Houston Community College (HCC) has started an initiative that will make college free for some local students.
Under the newly launched Eagle Promise Program, spring 2019 high school graduates who live within the HCC taxing district may qualify to earn a free degree or certificate.
Students must meet various requirements to become eligible to receive the free degree. These include having a high school GPA of 2.0 or higher, and having an expected family contribution (EFC) of less than $10,000.
Those who qualify for the program will be eligible to have their tuition, fees and a book allowance of up to $500 covered for each semester.
“When we consider the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s students, Eagle Promise is another conduit for the institution to advance our commitment of removing completion barriers,” Dr. Janet Wormack, HCC’s vice-chancellor of finance and administration and chief financial officer, told KHOU 11.
Students must also submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their acceptance into the program. For undocumented students who are eligible for state financial aid funds, a Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) must be submitted.
Students will also be required to commit to completing an eligible certificate or degree program within three to five years, to attend an academic advising session once a semester, and to attend a financial coaching session once a year.
Free College Programs Remain Inaccessible for Many Student Parents