Tuition-Free Colleges in Cleveland 2025

If you live in Cleveland and are ready to start college, you may be concerned about how much it will cost. So, you're wondering: is it possible to attend college for free? Are there any tuition-free schools in Cleveland?

It is possible to get a tuition-free college education at some schools in Cleveland thanks to the Say Yes to Education initiative. Eligible students may be able to attend college without tuition expenses at Cleveland State University, Cuyahoga Community College, Case Western University, and the Cleveland Institute of Art.

Keep reading to learn more. Also, many tuition-free online colleges in Ohio are available.

Top 3 Tuition-Free Colleges Near Cleveland

Say Yes to Education Cleveland, also known simply as Say Yes Cleveland, partners with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) to provide affordable education for students from participating high schools. Let's look at the Cleveland colleges and universities where students can study tuition-free through the program.

Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University is a public school in the University System of Ohio. Established in 1964, the school offers a wide array of degree programs among eight schools and boasts an enrollment of more than 14,000 students.

High school graduates from CMSD schools who meet other eligibility requirements can attend the school tuition-free. In addition, the university provides various institutional scholarships ranging from $32,000 to $40,000 for in-state and out-of-state students, respectively. All students who enroll at the school are automatically considered for many of these scholarships, which can help cover other expenses for students whose college tuition costs are covered by a Say Yes scholarship.

Cuyahoga Community College

Cuyahoga Community College serves Cleveland and surrounding communities in northeast Ohio. The district enrolls more than 26,700 students and provides more than 1,000 courses leading to associate degrees and certificates.

Through the Say Yes to Education Program, students receive $1,500 scholarships which may cover or eliminate tuition costs. They also receive priority registration, access to individualized coaching sessions, and various events to help them seamlessly transition into college.

Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University is a private school offering more than 260 degree programs in various fields. The university traces its roots to 1826 and currently enrolls around 12,200 students.

Students are automatically considered for various scholarships upon enrolling, and there are various other scholarships they can apply for. Though not all students are guaranteed scholarships, the school also provides need-based aid packages to cover 100% of demonstrated need for all U.S. citizens and meet other eligibility requirements.

Cleveland Institute of Art

The Cleveland Institute of Art is a private school offering degrees related to art and design fields. The school was first established in 1882. It provides many Bachelor of Fine Arts degree programs along with:

• internships
• study-abroad opportunities
• mobility programs

The school offers between two and five Say Yes scholarships to students whose family income is $75,000 a year or less. The scholarships cover at least full tuition and all mandatory fees, though some may cover additional expenses.

How To Access Free College in Cleveland

If you're still wondering how to take advantage of free tuition or how to eliminate other college costs, keep reading. The following tips will help you ensure you attend college while accruing few if any, out-of-pocket expenses.

Attend a Community College

Community colleges generally cost less than four-year universities and colleges. Not only are their tuition rates lower, but the overall cost of attendance may also be lower. Plus, since many don't provide on-campus housing, you may save money by living with family or in an off-campus apartment.

Attending a community college in Cleveland will help you save a lot of money while pursuing an associate degree or career certificate. If you decide to transfer to a four-year school to get a bachelor's degree, you may be able to transfer many of your credits, helping you finish faster and more affordably.

Apply for Financial Aid

One of the most important things you can do when preparing for college is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form helps state and federal governments, and your school of choice, determine your financial need and what kind of financial aid packages you may qualify for.

The FAFSA can help you obtain federal and state grants, work-study programs, student loans, and other financial aid awards you can use to cover:

• tuition
• fees
• books
• room and board
• transportation
• food

Grants and Scholarship Programs

Federal, state, and school-based aid doesn't always cover all of your college costs. Consider applying for private scholarships and grants from businesses and nonprofit organizations to obtain additional funds. These are often merit-based and have specific eligibility requirements, so it's important to follow the instructions for each application carefully.

The Cleveland Foundation is a great source of scholarships in the Cleveland area. This foundation offers more than 60 individual scholarships that aspiring college students can apply for.

FAQs About Tuition-Free Degree Programs in Cleveland

If you still have questions about receiving full tuition coverage for your education, you're in the right place. Keep reading as we look at some commonly asked questions you may have.

Who Is Eligible for Say Yes Cleveland Scholarships?

To be eligible for a full tuition scholarship from Say Yes to Education Cleveland, students must have studied at a Cleveland Metropolitan School District school from ninth grade through graduation. They must also have lived in Cleveland or a nearby town served by the school district from ninth grade through graduation. Students must agree to enroll in college full-time and participate in required activities and coaching sessions.

Are There Any Tuition-Free Colleges in Cleveland, Ohio?

None of the schools in Cleveland are completely tuition-free. However, the schools outlined in this article provide funding to cover the cost of tuition through the Say Yes initiative. For this reason, many students who attend these schools can do so tuition-free.

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for Tuition-Free Colleges in Cleveland?

Those who obtain tuition-free college in Cleveland are eligible for the Say Yes to Education Cleveland program. All CMSD students who have been continuously enrolled from 9th grade through graduation and lived in Cleveland or a CMSD-served community during that time are eligible for a Say Yes scholarship.