Colorado Promise
Two Free Years of College Expanded
Beginning in Fall 2024, students who attend Colorado public institutions of higher education with family incomes of $90,000 or less are eligible for complete reimbursement of any out-of-pocket tuition and fees they pay for postsecondary education. The program expands on individual institutional promise programs and extends financial support to middle income Colorado residents.
At-a-glance
Graduate debt-free with a certificate (or two), an associate degree, or half of a bachelor’s degree. Up to 65 credit hours.
Attend any Colorado public postsecondary institution – we’re talking community colleges, public four-year colleges and universities, area technical colleges, and local district colleges.
Get reimbursed for tuition and fees through a yearly refundable tax credit. More on that below*.
No application needed. If you're eligible, you're automatically enrolled – you’re welcome.
Program Eligibility
There is no separate application for the Colorado Promise. Starting January 2026, Colorado institutions of higher education will notify students by January 31st if they are eligible and the amount of a tax credit they can receive.
Student eligibility criteria:
- Complete FAFSA or CASFA
- Family Adjusted Gross Income of $90,000 or less
- Eligible to receive in-state tuition
- Classified as degree or credential-seeking undergraduate working towards a certificate, associates, or bachelors
- Graduated or completed high school by January 2024 or later and enrolled within two years at a postsecondary institution, or currently enrolled in an eligible institution as of Fall 2024
Term/semester eligibility criteria:
- Have accumulated fewer than 65 credits at the start of term (not including AP, IB, military credit, credit for prior learning and dual or concurrent enrollment)
- Completed at least six credits at the end of the term
- Earned a 2.5 GPA at the end of the term
- Student or family paid some amount in tuition and/or fees
Eligible institutions:
- Colorado community colleges
- Colorado public four-year colleges and universities
- Colorado area technical colleges
- Colorado local district colleges
Interested?
Get on the list for more info
Additional Affordability Programs
There are other scholarships, resources, and support for students. Look through the different programs and opportunities to see if there is one that is a fit for you.
FREE Financial Aid Applications
Even if you do not qualify for Colorado Promise or an institutional promise program, there are other financial resources available. The most important step you can take is to complete your FAFSA (opens in new window) or CASFA(opens in new window). These applications are secure, safe and FREE for everyone. Completing these applications will help you gain access to grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial support. Completing the applications does not lock you into attending any institution or accepting any financial obligations.
Hey, this stuff can get confusing – here’s a glossary of terms >
Not sure which education path is right for you? Check out My Colorado Journey >