How To Get Free Community College in 2025

Whether you're a high school student considering college or a working adult looking into online community colleges, you may be wondering how you will pay for your education. You might ask, ''Is it possible to attend community college for free?''

You can attend community college for free in many areas throughout the country, though eligibility requirements vary. Even if you don't qualify for free tuition, you may still be able to attend school for free or almost free by looking into scholarships and financial aid options.

Keep reading to learn how to get a free or low-cost degree at a community college.

Can You Attend a Community College for Free?

Completing higher education at a community college may be more affordable than you think. Free tuition is available for community college students in many states, including:

• California
• New York
• Indiana
• Oklahoma
• Tennessee

Each state offering free tuition programs provides different award amounts. For example, the California College Promise Grant provides first-dollar awards to California residents, covering their tuition regardless of other financial aid packages they might be eligible for.

Most states offer last-dollar programs that cover the remainder of costs after other financial aid awards, such as federal grants and scholarships, have been applied.

Not all states offer free college programs. To find information about your state, search for ''college promise programs'' or ''free tuition programs'' in your state.

Individual schools may also cover the cost of tuition or provide fee waivers for certain groups of students. For example, senior citizens can often attend community college for free. Students who are homeless, in foster care, or have a military background may also be eligible for free college.

Finally, even if your state and school of choice don't offer free tuition, or if you don't qualify for the programs available, you can still attend school for free. Applying for financial aid and scholarships can help you cover most or all of your costs, allowing you to complete your degree program without breaking the bank.

Learn more: How To Finance College Education

Who Is Eligible for Free Tuition?

States offering free community college often have different eligibility requirements. Some states only cover the costs of associate degrees, while others also cover bachelor's degrees, certificate programs, and technical training. Some states only cover tuition for low-income or in-state students; others provide the same aid for all students.

Full-time enrollment may be a requirement to receive the full tuition coverage. Still, some states may cover tuition for both full-time and part-time students. Some will only cover community college tuition for recent high school graduates or first-time students, while others provide the same benefits for returning adult students.

Specific degree programs may also play a role. Some states only cover college costs for students in certain programs, such as STEM-designated fields or healthcare programs. Other states provide at least one year of free tuition regardless of degree program.

It's important to check with the specific laws and policies governing your state and school to see if you will be eligible for free community college.

Are There Any Additional Costs I Should Prepare For?

Most community college programs only cover tuition; in some cases, they can cover tuition and fees. You may be subject to additional expenses while pursuing your associate degree or career certificate, though they are generally outweighed by the advantages community colleges offer. Common community college expenses include:

• meals
• transportation
• room and board
• books
• technology fees

If your state doesn't cover these additional expenses, you can find other ways to cover them. You can apply for federal aid and scholarships, participate in work-study programs, work a part-time job while in school, or take out a student loan.

Does FAFSA Make Community College Free?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an online form that helps determine your eligibility for many financial aid packages. State and federal governments, schools, and scholarship organizations use your FAFSA results to determine your family income and personal financial circumstances.

Many states require students to complete the FAFSA to take advantage of free community college programs. This is especially true in states where students must demonstrate financial need to receive free tuition.

If you aren't eligible for tuition waivers or live in a state that doesn't provide free college, completing the FAFSA can help you secure other funds to cover your education. So, while filling out the FAFSA doesn't guarantee you'll receive free community college, it can help you eliminate the costs associated with attending school.

Steps for Getting Free Community College

If you're wondering what you need to do to get free community college, there are a few steps of the process to understand. Consider the steps listed below.

1. Research State or Local Programs

As noted, not all states have the same types of programs available. Each state has different financial aid programs and eligibility requirements. Local governments and specific schools in your area may provide additional programs.

Research the programs available in your state and local area to find out what's available and which programs you qualify for. Search online for college promise programs or free tuition in your state or city.

2. Determine Your Eligibility

Once you find local programs, carefully review all eligibility requirements. Find out if you need to submit specific documents or meet certain criteria to qualify for the programs.

It's essential to complete this step as early as possible. You don't have to wait until you're a senior in high school. The sooner you understand the eligibility requirements, the better chance of meeting them.

3. Complete Application and Enrollment Processes

Complete the FAFSA and any other forms required to apply for free tuition programs. You may need to submit supporting documents as well, such as high school transcripts or financial records.

It's important to complete this step early to ensure you receive as much aid as possible. Always apply by the listed deadline ? applying months in advance is even better.

4. Maintain Eligibility

Once you receive free tuition through your state or local program, the process isn't quite done. You'll need to maintain eligibility for the program throughout your college experience. For an associate degree, this usually means maintaining eligibility for about four semesters.

Maintaining eligibility is important because if you become ineligible to receive funding, you'll be prompted to find other ways of paying for college. Always understand the eligibility requirements of your particular program so you can maintain eligibility until you graduate.

5. Explore Additional Financial Aid

If your state or school doesn't cover all your costs, consider looking for other financial aid options. As noted, the FAFSA provides access to many different forms of aid like grants, work-study programs, and loans.

You can also apply for scholarships to cover additional expenses, find out if your employer offers college payment assistance programs, ask friends or family for financial support, or work a part-time job while in school.