Free Colleges for Low Income Students

How Do I Find Free Colleges for Low Income Students – Looking for free colleges for low-income students? This guide will help you explore the list of colleges and universities in the United States that offer free undergraduate and graduate degrees for qualifying students. Pursuing higher education is getting more and more expensive. An average cost of college in the USA is $38,270 per year per student as per the Education Data Initiative. The source reveals that a significant percent of the annual college cost is made up of tuition. If you cannot afford to pay for college, then don’t worry! There are many options available if you want to know how to attend college for free. This guide will provide a list of top colleges for low-income students in America.

How Do Low-Income Students Pay for College?

Paying for college on a low-income can be overwhelming, but fortunately there are many strategies with which you can manage the cost easily. Following is the list of ways through which you can access low-income student support to pay the college fees.

• Financial Aid Programs: The first and foremost step is to fill out the FAFSA. Submitting a completed FAFSA will help your college or university determine your eligibility for work study programs, federal grants or scholarships and subsidized loans.
• Government Grants for Education: You can apply for grants and scholarships at the federal and school levels. They are available from government agencies, nonprofit organizations, fraternal organizations, and so on. This includes federal Pell Grant, FSEOG, TEACH Grants and other state-specific programs.
• Work Study Programs: Work study provides part-time jobs for students with financial needs and allows you to earn money to help pay for college fees or tuition.
• Tuition Reimbursement: College tuition affects low-income families, especially those who are earning a specific percentage of the federal poverty level or area median income. Fortunately, there are many colleges that offer free tuition for low-income families.
• Community Colleges: You can consider starting at community colleges where the tuition is comparatively lower and then transitioning to a four-year educational institution later.
• Military Schools: Military schools offer affordable college education in exchange for a commitment from students to serve the military upon completion of their graduation.

Top US Colleges For Low-Income Students

There are plenty of colleges for low-income students throughout the country. We have everything covered for you. Following is the list of the best colleges for low-income students arranged in chronological order that can make education affordable for you.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Arkansas

Arkansas State University

• Aid Programs: The A- Start Promise Plus Scholarship by Arkansas State University covers tuition and fees for up to 15 credit hours per semester. Students must belong to families making less than $70,000 per year and have a minimum GPA of 3.
• Eligibility: The family income of the student must be less than $70,000. They must have a minimum GPA of 3.00.
• Net price: $12,011.
• ACT range: 19-26
• SAT range: 980-1200
• Contact: 870-972-2310.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In California

University of California System

• Aid Programs:

Free tuition and fees under the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan for families earning less than $80,000.

Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) Program that covers a part of the college expenses for qualified undergraduate and teaching credential students.

Part time jobs, California Dream Loan Program and work study programs for students to help them gain work experience and cover educational expenses.

• Eligibility: Must belong to a low-income household.
• Net price: $19257.
• ACT range: 26-33
• SAT range: 1310-1580
• Contact: 800.207.1710.

California Institute Of Technology 

• Aid Programs: The California Institute of Technology provides many assistance including student faculty programs. You can get grants, work study, scholarships and loans to pay for your college.
• Eligibility: Must belong to a low-income household.

• Net price: $20,755
• ACT range: 35-36
• SAT range: 1530-1580.

Pomona College

• Aid Programs: One of the best colleges for low-income students in California that makes education affordable. Financial aid is available to around 58% of students, whereas 52% get need-based scholarships.

• Eligibility. Students must demonstrate strong financial need through FAFSA forms and must apply within the deadline.

• Net price: $19962
• ACT range: 33-35
• SAT range: 1480-1560.

Stanford University

• Aid Programs: 

Needy students from poor families earning less than $150,000 annually get financial assistance to cover fees, tuition, and room and board costs for low-income

Stanford provides scholarship aid to cover tuition, provided the family income of the student is in between $100,000 to $150,000.

• Eligibility: Family income must be less than $150,000 annually and display strong academic excellence and financial need.
• Net price: $18,279
• ACT range: 33-35
• SAT range: 1500-1580
• Contact: 650-723-2300.

Claremont McKenna College

• Aid Programs: Claremont McKenna College provides many financial aid programs for low-income students including need-based and merit awards, grants opportunity funds and fees waivers.
• Net price: $28,701
• ACT range: 33-35
• SAT range: 1440-1550.
• Contact: 909-621-8000.

University of Southern California

• Aid Programs: This college offers free tuition for low income students in California under the USC’s Affordability initiative and The School of Dramatic Arts Master of Fine Arts program.
• Eligibility: Must be a MFA student with household income less than $80,000 annually.
• Net price: $36,808
• ACT range: 30-34
• SAT range: 1450-1550.
• Contact: 719-549-2100.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Colorado

University of Colorado Boulder

• Aid Programs: University of Colorado Boulder offers the CU Promise Program and The Lattice Scholars Program offer fees and tuition for in-state students who are Pell Grant recipients. An additional grant of $5000 is provided if the expected family contribution is $0 according to FAFSA.
• Eligibility: Must be eligible for the Pell Grant, be in-state students, and majoring in engineering.

• Net price: $19,818
• ACT range: 25-31
• SAT range: 1160-1390.

• Contact: 303-492-1411.

University of Northern Colorado

• Aid Programs: University of Northern Colorado offers UNC Tuition Promise that covers tuition for a minimum 12 credit hours and up to 16 credit hours, or a maximum $5836 per semester.
• Eligibility: Students from families earning less than $65,000 annually.
• Net price: $17,569
• ACT range: 20-27
• SAT range: 970-1170
• Contact: 970-351-1890.

Colorado State University

• Aid Programs: Low-income students get free scholarships to pursue higher education.
• Eligibility: Students should maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The family income must be less than $70,000.
• Net price: $16,926.
• ACT range: 23-29
• SAT range: 1080-1290.
• Contact: 970-491-6444.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Connecticut

Yale University

• Aid Programs: Students belonging to families who are earning less than $700,000 and who are not expected to make any financial contribution towards their studies by Yale University in CT. The financial aid includes US citizenship, including students without DACA status.
• Eligibility: Families must be earning less than $75,000 annually.
• Net Price: $18,647
• ACT range: 31-36
• SAT range: 1500-1580.
• Contact: 203.432.2700.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Delaware

Delaware State University

• Aid Programs: Delaware State University offers the Inspire Scholarship that covers full tuition.
• Eligibility: Must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75, graduate from Delaware High School, demonstrate community service in every semester.
• Net price: $11,610.
• ACT range: 20-24
• SAT range: 830-1050
• Contact: 302.857.6060

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Florida 

University of Florida

• Aid Programs: The University of Florida provides assistance programs for students like loans, financial aid, grants and other resources. The grant may range between $200 to $2610 per academic year.
• Eligibility: Must be eligible for the Pell Grant, be in-state students, and demonstrate financial hardship.
• Net price: $19,818 

• Net price: $11740
• ACT range: 30-34
• SAT range: 1300-1490.
• Contact: 352.392.2244.

Florida State University, Panama City

• Aid Programs: Free fees and tuition are provided by the FSU Promise Scholarship to students who are Florida residents and have combined annual household income less than $60,000 or have been eligible for the Pell Grant.
• Eligibility: Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA and finish 30 hours of community service each semester. The family income should be less than $60,000 annually.
• Net price: $12,400
• ACT range: Average 28
• SAT range: Minimum 1220
• Contact: 866-693-7872.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Georgia

Georgia Institute Of Technology

• Aid Programs: The Georgia Institute of Technology provides many existence programs like loans, work opportunities and scholarships for students based on their merit and needs.
• Eligibility: Must demonstrate financial hardship and academic excellence.
• Net price: $17,402
• ACT range: 31-35
• SAT range: 1370-1550.
• Contact: 404.894.2565.

Emory University

• Aid programs: Emory University in Atlanta Georgia provides many assistance programs for students in form of grants, scholarships, etc. to undergraduate students who can demonstrate financial hardship.
• Eligibility: Must be a full-time student in need of financial assistance.
• Net price: $26680
• ACT range: 32 and 34
• SAT range: 1430-1550.
• Contact: 404.430.1120.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Hawaii

Hawai’i Pacific University

• Aid programs: The Hawai’i Pacific University offers the Holomua Commitment pilot to provide free tuition for qualified students.
• Eligibility: Students must be Hawaii residents and belong to families having federal expected family contributions lesser than the university’s tuition.
• Net price: $31,940.
• ACT range: 25-33
• SAT range: 1120-1423.
• Contact: 1866 CALL HPU.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Iowa

Grinnell College

• Aid programs: Grinnell College makes education affordable and accessible for all students in Iowa. It is one of the fewer United States institutions of higher education where students do not need to obtain any loans.
• Eligibility. Students need to belong to a low-income background and demonstrate academic excellence and community service to get no loan financial aid.
• Net price: $22854.
• ACT range: 31-34
• SAT range: Minimum 1410
• Contact: 641.269.4000.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Illinois

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

• Aid Programs: Fees and tuition covered for up to four years under the Illinois Commitment Program.
• Eligibility: Must have graduated from a high school. The family income should be less than $67,100 annually.
• Net price: $14544
• ACT range: 32-36
• SAT range: 1320-1510.
• Contact: 217-333-0100.

The University of Chicago

• Aid Programs: Students belonging to low-income families such as $60,000 per year will have their tuition covered by financial aid. Students whose family income is less than $125,000 per year get financial awards to cover the full cost of tuition.
• Eligibility: Family income must be within program threshold.
• Net price: $36991
• ACT range: 34-35
• SAT range: 1500-1580.
• Contact: 773-702-1234

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Indiana

University of Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame provides terms of resistance programmes for low income students in the form of branch scholarships in financial aid. The university offers HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP programs along with Student Hardship Assistance Fund to provide temporary relief.

• Eligibility: Students must belong to the low-income category and show financial hardship.

• Net price: $28474
• ACT range: 34-36
• SAT range: 1450-1550.
• Contact: +1 574-631-5000

Grace College

• Aid Programs: Students should be accepted by the Grace College and have tuition awarded by March 1 to be eligible for the Indiana Full Tuition Plan.
• Eligibility: Family income must be less than $60,000 annually with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Net price: $18795
• ACT range: 19 and 27
• SAT range: 970-1190.
• Contact: +18005447223.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Kansas

Barclay College

• Aid Programs: Students get free if they are living in the campus dorms.
• Eligibility: Students living in on-campus dorms
• Net price: $26236
• ACT range: 19-22
• SAT range: 830-1030.
• Contact: 800-862-0226.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Kentucky

Alice Llyod College 

• Aid Programs: If you’re looking for affordable colleges for low-income students in Kentucky, then you can enroll with Alice Lloyd College. They offer scholarships through which students can cover the cost of tuition for up to 10 semesters.
• Eligibility: Students must work 10 hours every week and 160 hours per semester at either an on- or off-campus job.
• Net price: $16391
• ACT range: Minimum 17
• SAT range: 810 or above.
• Contact: (888) 280-4252

Berea College

• Aid Programs: Looking for colleges that offer free tuition for low-income students in Kentucky? You would be surprised to note that no student pays any tuition at Berea College. The Tuition Promise Scholarship helps to cover remaining tuition costs after grants and scholarships.
• Eligibility: Must be a student of Berea College.
• Net price: $57,694
• ACT range: 23-27
• SAT range: 1136-1298.
• Contact: 859-985-3000.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Maine

Bowdoin College

• Aid programs: Bowdoin College supports students financially with books, housing, food, travel, internship or study abroad opportunities, career exploration, and many more. The college helps students from low-income families to succeed and acquire a college degree.
• Eligibility: The first and foremost step to get assistance is to submit the financial situation report of the student’s family.
• Net price: $26,727
• ACT range: 33-35
• SAT range: 1460 and 1560
• Contact: +1 207-725-3000.

Colby College

• Aid Programs: Students belonging to families who are earning less than $75,000 as well as those earning up to $150,000 can qualify for the Colby Commitment Program in ME. The program promises to cover 100% of the financial aid for those who are earning $75,000 or less. 
• Eligibility: Student’s family must be $75,000 or less. Students’ family income should be less than $150,000.
• Net price: $17890
• ACT range: 32-34
• SAT range: 1430-1540
• Contact: (207) 859-4830

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Maryland

University of Maryland

• Aid Programs: Eligible students can cover tuition and fees after all grants, scholarships and expected family contributions are exhausted through The Terrapin Commitment Program
• Eligibility: In-state students and Pell Grant-eligible.
• Net price: $28474
• ACT range: 30-34
• SAT range: 1360-1520.
• Contact: 301.405.1000.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Massachusetts

Williams College

• Aid programs: One of the best colleges for low-income students that offers financial assistance packages in Massachusetts is Williams College. The school provides many financial aid options, like work-study, scholarships and grants.
• Eligibility: Low-income students with the utmost financial need who wish to earn college without incurring debt can qualify.
• Net price: $14487.
• ACT range: 33-35
• SAT range: 1480–1550
• Contact: +1 413-597-3131

Smith College

• Aid programs: Smith College assists students from different socioeconomic backgrounds. The school has partnered with QuestBridge, a popular educational platform to connect low-income students with quality educational institutions.
• Eligibility. All accepted students can apply for assistance within the deadline and must have documented needs as required by the college.
• Net price: $24,536
• ACT range: 31- 34.
• SAT range: 1370- 1520

Harvard College

• Aid programs: Harvard College is one of the best online colleges that offers free tuition for low-income students in Massachusetts.

The college will cover the full cost of attendance for students belonging to families earning less than $85,000.

Students who belong to families earning in the range of $85,000 to $40,000 are expected to make a contribution between 0% and 10% of their family’s annual income.

Comprehensive financial aid packages that covers the whole cost of college attendance without the need to take any loans full strong

Offers need-blind admissions to students.

• Eligibility: Must belong to families earning less than $85,000 annually.
• Net price: $19491
• ACT range: 31-36
• SAT range: 1490-1580
• Contact: 617.495.1552.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• Aid Programs: Financial aid programs for students from different economic backgrounds. It is one of the seven colleges in America that can meet 100% of the demonstrated financial need for all undergraduate students.

MIT need-based scholarships for low-income students belonging to families who make less than $140,000 annually.

Low student loan expectations through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program.

High rate of debt-free graduates.

• Eligibility: Must belong to families earning less than $140,000 annually.
• Contact: 617-258-8600.
• Net price: $20,232
• ACT range: 35-36
• SAT range: 1530-1580

Sattler College

• Aid Programs: The Entrustment Commitment requires students to give what they can once they become an alum.
• Eligibility: Any student can qualify. Must have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Net price: $10450
• ACT range: 1-36
• SAT range: –
• Contact:+1 (617) 420-1820.

Wellesley College

• Aid programs: Wellesley College has partnered with nonprofit organization QuestBoard for providing education and scholarship opportunities to deserving students belonging to low-income families. It has also participated in the MasterCard Foundation Scholars program to enable students to get ongoing support and scholarship opportunities.
• Eligibility: Students are required to live on campus for their first two semesters or summer housing to meet the criteria. They also have to show a minimum GPA of 3.0
• ACT range: 33-35
• SAT range: 1430-1550
• Contact: +1 781-283-1000

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Michigan

Michigan State University

• Aid programs: The Michigan State University offers the Spartan Advantage Program that covers fees, tuition, food, housing, books, and course materials.
• Eligibility: In-state, first-time dependent, Pell- eligible and first-year students. The household income should be below the federal poverty guidelines.
• Net price: $16655
• ACT range: 24 to 30
• SAT range: 1100 to 1340
• Contact: 517-353-5940.

University of Michigan System

• Aid Programs: There are many public colleges for low-income students, for instance the University of Michigan System. Nearly two-thirds of first-year students get financial aid, and in-state students with families earning $65,000 or less and assets under $30,000 qualify for free tuition. Similarly, Michigan State University’s Spartan Advantage Program assists neediest students.
• Eligibility: Must be in-state students and belong to families earning less than $75,000 annually to qualify for Ann Arbor

Must be in-state first-time and transfer students with a family income less than $65,000 and assets less than $50,000 to qualify for Dearborn.

Must be in-state first-time and transfer students with a minimum GPA of 3.5. The family income must be less than $12,000 and assets below $50,000 to qualify for Flint.

• Net price: $19318
• ACT range: 31-34
• SAT range: 1350-1530.
• Contact: 734-764-7433.

Hope College

• Aid Programs: The Hope Forward program commits to take part in the Hope Forward cohort and promises to contribute to the program monetarily after graduation to support other students.
• Eligibility: Anyone can qualify.
• Net price: $25965
• ACT range: 35-36
• SAT range: 1100-1330
• Contact: 616.395.7775.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Minnesota

Concordia College

• Aid Programs: The first-year or transfer students who belong to families earning less than $90,000 per year can qualify for FAFSA. They will also be considered for the Concordia Promise in Minnesota starting in fall 2024.
• Eligibility: Either first-year or transfer students who belong to families making less than $90,000 annually and qualified for FAFSA.
• Net price: $18,492
• ACT range: 26 or above
• SAT range: 1020-1270
• Contact: 218.299.4000.

University of Minnesota

• Aid Programs: University of Minnesota helps students financially under the Promise Plus Free Tuition Program.
• Eligibility: Must be in-state, first-year students who belong to families earning less than $50,000 annually.
• Net price: $16,018
• ACT range: 27-33
• SAT range: 1300-1470
• Contact: 612-625-5000

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Missouri

University of Missouri

• Aid Programs: In-state Pell Grant recipients get help to cover fees and tuition under The Missouri Land Grant.
• Eligibility: In-state, first-year and transfer students who are Pell Grant eligible.
• Net price: $18,249
• ACT range: 23 to 26
• SAT range: 1140-1340
• Contact: 573-882-7786.

Washington University in St. Louis

• Aid Programs: Washington University in St. Louis offers the washU Pledge that offers free undergraduate education.
• Eligibility: The family income must be less than $75,000 annually.
• Net price: $23432
• ACT range: 33-35
• SAT range: 1500-1570
• Contact: 888-547-6670 or 314-935-5900.

College of the Ozarks

• Aid Programs: All students get a Tuition Assurance Scholarship from the College of the Ozarks in MO if they’re employed in an on-campus job for 15 hours per week and two 40-hour work weeks per school year.
• Eligibility: All students can qualify.
• Net price: $18630
• ACT range: 20-25
• SAT range: 1030 or above
• Contact: 417-334-6411.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Montana

University of Montana

• Aid Programs: The Grizzly Promise covers fees and tuition costs for eligible students.
• Eligibility: Students belonging to families earning less than $50,000 annually.
• Net price: $11950
• ACT range: 19-26
• SAT range: 1080-1278
• Contact: 402-472-2023.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Nebraska

University of Nevada, Reno

• Aid Programs: Eligible students under The Nevada Guarantee cover the cost of fees, tuition and books.
• Eligibility: In-state, full-time and Pell Grant eligible and pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
• Net price: $9578
• ACT range: 19-26
• SAT range: 1060-1300
• Contact: (775) 784-4666.

University of Nebraska System

• Aid Programs: The Nebraska Promise enables qualified students to cover tuition at any campus.
• Eligibility: Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and belong to families earning less than $65,000, or be Pell Grant eligible.
• Net price: $10108
• ACT range: 23-25
• SAT range: 1110 or above
• Contact: 402-472-7211.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In New Hampshire

University of New Hampshire

• Aid Programs: Full-time students who complete FAFSA and remain qualified financially for up to four years will automatically qualify for the Granite Guarantee.
• Eligibility: In-state and first-year students who are Pell Grant eligible or Community College system of New Hampshire Transfers.
• Net price: $22,392
• ACT range: 25 or above
• SAT range: 1120-1320
• Contact: (603) 862-3600.

Dartmouth College 

• Aid Programs: Students who belong to families earning less than $125,000 or less per year, including those earning under $65,000 per year, can get free tuition from Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. The college does not expect families to contribute to their students’ education if their income is below $65,000.
• Eligibility: Students who belong to families making less than $125,000 annually. Students belonging to families earning less than $65,000 annually.
• Net price: $19,208
• ACT range: 34 or higher
• SAT range: 1500-1580.
• Contact: 603.646.1110.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In New Jersey

Fairleigh Dickinson University

• Aid Programs: The FDU Advantage Program by the university offers full tuition coverage to eligible students.
• Eligibility: Students who get maximum Pell Grant, New Jersey Tuition Assistance Grant and have expected family contribution of $0.
• Net price: $12305
• ACT range: 30
• SAT range: 1260-1426
• Contact: 800-338-3887 or 201-692-6500.

Princeton University

• Aid Programs: Princeton University aims to make education affordable for students from different financial backgrounds:

Financial support for international students

100% of tuition, room & board covered if family income is less than $65,000.

Financial aid in the form of grants and not loans.

High percentage of debt-free graduates from the university.

• Eligibility: Students belonging to families earning less than $100,000 annually.
• Net price: $18698.
• ACT range: 35-36
• SAT range: 1490-1580
• Contact: 609-258-3000.

Four-year public New Jersey universities

• Aid Programs: Free tuition and fees for up to four semesters under the Garden State Guarantee.
• Eligibility: Students need to file FAFSA or NJ Alternative Application. They must belong to families earning less than $65,000 annually.
• Net Price: $25,423.
• SAT and ACT range– optional
• Contact: 973-655-4000.

Rider University

• Aid Programs: Rider University offers the Rider Tuition Guarantee that covers tuition for qualified students.
• Eligibility: Must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Must belong to families earning AGI lesser than $50,000.
• Net price: $23781
• ACT range: 21-29
• SAT range: 1100-1300
• Contact: 609-896-5000.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In New Mexico

Public Colleges & Universities

• Aid Programs: Free tuition for qualified students under the Opportunity Scholarship and The Lottery Scholarship.
• Eligibility: Students enrolled in state public college or university.
• Net price: $13,742 for those having family income in range between $0-$30,000.
• ACT range: 17-24
• SAT range: 885-1110

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In New York

Columbia University

• Aid Programs: Columbia University is a prestigious institution that offers many financial aid offerings to low-income students as the following:

Waiver of Summer earnings contribution requirement a family income is less than $66,000 and start up grant of $2000 for undergraduate study.

Comprehensive financial aid for students from families earning less than $150,000

100% need coverage for students whose family income is less than 66000.

• Eligibility: Family income must be within the specific threshold.
• Net price: $22,058.
• ACT range: 34-35
• SAT range: 1490-1580
• Contact: 212-854-1919.

Webb Institute

• Aid Programs:  Webb Institute in NY offers full tuition scholarship opportunities to accept a student who is a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident. You can also get need-based financial aid to cover the costs of attending school after completing FAFSA.
• Eligibility: Must be citizens of the United States or permanent residents.
• Net price: $19231
• ACT range: 35-36
• SAT range: 1390-1510.
• Contact: 516-6712-213.

Colgate University

• Aid programs: Students whose family income is less than $80,000 can attend tuition free college in Colgate University in NY whereas students having family income in the range of $80,000 to $275,000 pay 3% of their annual income towards tuition.
• Eligibility: Students with family income less than $80000 and must file all the required statements and forms on-time.
• Net price: $24500.
• ACT range: 32-34 
• SAT range: 1410-1530
• Contact: 315-228-7000.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In North Carolina

Duke University

• Aid Programs: One of the renowned tuition-free colleges in the state of North Carolina is Duke University. North Carolina and South Carolina students who belong to families earning less than $150,000 per year get free tuition and fees after completing FAFSA. The university provides additional assistance for meals, housing, materials, and campus expenses for those belonging to families earning less than $65,000 per year.
• Eligibility: Must be North Carolina and South Carolina residents. The income must be less than $150,000 yearly
• Net price: $23694
• ACT range: 34-35
• SAT range: 1490-1570.
• Contact: (919) 684-8111.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• Aid Programs: The University of North Carolina Chapel Hill is committed to making education affordable and accessible, and so nearly half of its students get financial aid through various means. The Carolina Convenient Program covers full cost of attendance for students whose family income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
• Eligibility: Undergraduate students must be working towards getting their first bachelor’s degree from families earning less than $80,000.
• Net price: $10614
• ACT range: 29-34
• SAT range: 1350-1530.
• Contact: 919-962-2211.

Warren Wilson College 

• Aid Programs: Warren Wilson is a North Carolina college that offers tuition waivers in the form of scholarships for in-state residents who qualify for need-based aid and attend as full-time or first-time graduates. The college provides a full-time scholarship for 25 students who are earning below $150,000 per year. It offers North Carolina Free Tuition Program and The Milepost One:A Full Tuition Scholarship
• Eligibility: 25 full-time, first-year transfer students can qualify if their family income is less than $150,000
• Net price: $25,117
• ACT range: 25-31
• SAT range: 1210-1370
• Contact: 828-771-2082.

Davidson College 

• Aid Programs: Davidson College in NC assists low-income students and makes education affordable, regardless of their families financial status. They have a Davidson Trust program through which 100% of students’ financial needs are a combination of grants and work study programs.
• Eligibility: Davidson College requires candidates to submit FAFSA and CSS and demonstrate a strong financial need.
• Net price: $26704
• ACT range: 31-33
• SAT range: 1350-1500.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Ohio

Case Western Reserve University

• Aid Programs: Case Western Reserve University covers the whole cost of attendance for eligible students.
• Eligibility: Must be high school graduates from Cleveland and East Cleveland public high school.
• Net price: $18240
• ACT range: 33-35
• SAT range: 1440-1530
• Contact: +216-368-2000.

Columbus State Community College

• Aid Programs: Graduating students under the Columbus Promise cover their tuition and fees after grants and scholarships are exhausted.
• Eligibility: Must be graduating seniors from Columbus City Schools.
• Net price: $23120
• ACT range: 25 or above
• SAT range: 1150 or above
• Contact: (614) 287-2722.

Antioch College

• Aid Programs: Antioch College offers the last dollar scholarship to eligible students and help them cover the college tuition
• Eligibility: Must be Pell Grant eligible.
• Net price: $17045
• ACT range: 19-26
• SAT range: 1195-1285
• Contact: 937-319-6082 ext. 6016.

Miami University

• Aid programs: Miami University provides tons of financial aid programs for low-income students, like grants and scholarships, loans, federal work study, on-campus jobs, and benefits for military veterans. Nearly 90% of its students get financial assistance that need not be paid back.
• Eligibility: Family income must be within program threshold.
• ACT range: 24-29
• SAT range: 1162-1337
• Contact: 513-529-1809.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma

• Aid Programs: The University of Oklahoma Crimson Commitment covers fees and tuition for eligible students. Students need to qualify for Oklahoma’s Promise in high school and be admitted from high school as first-time, full-time, or first-year students. 
• Eligibility: Must belong to families earning less than $100,000 annually and apply to the university by Feb. 1 of their high school senior year.
• Net price: $22,800
• ACT range: 23-29
• SAT range: 1130 or above
• Contact: (405) 325-2151.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Oregon

University of Oregon

• Aid Programs: University of Oregon offers the PathwayOregon Program to provide free tuition and fees for eligible students
• Eligibility: Should have a minimum GPA of 3.4. In-state, first-time college student and eligible for Pell Grant.
• Net price: $14,751
• ACT range: 24-27
• SAT range: 1140 -1340
• Contact: 800-547-8887.

Portland State University

• Aid Programs: Eligible students can cover their college fees and tuition under The Tuition-Free Degree Program.
• Eligibility: Pell Grant-eligible, in-state, first-year, part or full time, re-enrolling undergraduate or transfer students.
• Net price: $15699.
• ACT range: 18-27
• SAT range: 1070-1300
• Contact: 503-725-3511.

Western Oregon University

• Aid Programs: Western Oregon University offers free tuition and fees for eligible students
• Eligibility: Pell Grant-eligible, in-state, first year, part or full time, re-enrolling undergraduate or transfer students.
• Net price: $16754
• ACT range: 17-20
• SAT range: 985-1220
• Contact: 503-838-8000 | 1-877-877-1593

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Pennsylvania

Gettysburg College

• Aid programs: Gettysburg College is one of the prestigious colleges for low-income students in Pennsylvania that offers financial assistance programs. Nearly 60% of college students have received scholarships and need-based grants worth $90 million to date.
• Eligibility: Must be students of low-income families.Scholarships and financial aid are available based on the merits and talent of the students.
• Net price: $31,048.
• ACT range: 27-32
• SAT range: 1337-1350
• Contact: 717-337-6300.

Allegheny College

• Aid Programs: Eligible students can get free fees and tuition.
• Eligibility: Students must belong to families earning less than $50,000 annually.
• Net price: $25419
• ACT range: 27
• SAT range: 1300
• Contact: 01-814-332-4351.

Curtis Institute Of Music

• Aid Programs: Curtis Institute Of Music offers full tuition scholarships to all students.
• Eligibility: All can qualify.
• Net price: $19002
• ACT range: –
• SAT range: –
• Contact: +1 (215) 893-5252.

Geneva College

• Aid programs: Free tuition to eligible students if they submit their application by 1st March.
• Eligibility: In-state, first-year students who belong to families earning less than $70,000 and eligible for Pell Grant funding.
• Net price: $19778
• ACT range: –
• SAT range: 1000-1240
• Contact: 800-847-8255.

The University of Pennsylvania

• Aid Programs: University of Pennsylvania, offers a generous financial aid budget to make sure students from different backgrounds can attend and graduate without incurring any debt. It is committed to meeting 100% of students’ demonstrated financial need through a combination of grants and work study programs.
• Eligibility: Students belong to families earning less than $75,000 annually.
• Net price: $26123
• ACT range: 34-35
• SAT range: 1500-1570
• Contact: 215.89.8721.

Williamson College Of The Trades

• Aid Programs: Williamson College Of The Trades offers needs-based tuition and room and board scholarship to all students.
• Eligibility: All students.
• Net price: $31471
• ACT range: –
• SAT range: 1100-1260
• Contact: (610) 566-1776.

Swarthmore College 

• Aid Programs: Another prominent college for low-income students that is committed to making sure education is affordable and attainable is Swarthmore College in PA. The college meets 100% of students’ determined financial needs and helps them cover the cost of fees from tuition, room, and board.
• Net price: $20,715
• ACT range: 33-34
• SAT range: 1440-1560.

Lafayette College

• Aids programs: Lafayette College has financial aid programs consisting of full tuition and half tuition merit-based scholarships. Students can apply for need-based assistance, and the college is committed to meeting 100% of students demonstrating financial need.
• Eligibility: Considers a student’s GPA, letters of recommendation and high school class rank.
• Net price: $30,629.
• ACT range: 30-33
• SAT range: 1330-1480
• Contact: +1 610-330-5000.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Rhode Island

Brown University

• Aid Programs: Students who belong to families earning less than $125,000 or less per year in Providence, Rhode Island can get a Brown’s Full Tuition Scholarship. Brown University is committed to making sure students can attain education without taking loans.
• Eligibility: Students belong to families earning less than $125,000 annually.
• Total price: $68,612
• ACT range: 34-36
• SAT range: 1540-1600
• Contact: 401-863-4111.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In South Carolina

Piedmont Technical College

• Aid Programs: The Piedmont Technical College provides free tuition to low-income students.
• Eligibility: South Carolina residents who can enroll in a minimum six credit hours.
• Net price: $10,584
• ACT range: 21 or higher
• SAT range: 960 or more
• Contact: 1+800-868-5528.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Tennessee

The University of Memphis

• Aid Programs: The University of Memphis offers Memphis Promise to cover the tuition cost for eligible students.
• Eligibility: High school seniors qualify for the Pell Grant and the Hope Scholarship.
• Net price: $14251
• ACT range: 17-24
• SAT range: 1040 or higher
• Contact: 901.678.2712.

Vanderbilt University

• Aid Programs: Pell Grant eligible students belonging to families earning less than $100,000 can qualify for free tuition in Vanderbilt University. The free tuition college program in TN covers housing, and a one-time grant of $6000 to cover summer internship costs. 
• Eligibility: Students must be from Metro Nashville Public Schools or belong to families earning less than $100,000.
• Net price: $25,606
• ACT range: 34-35
• SAT range: 1490-1570.
• Contact: 615-322-7311.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Texas

Texas A&M University

• Aid Programs: There are many Texas colleges that offer free tuition or financial aid to low-income students. For instance, Texas A&M University offers Aggie Assurance, a free tuition program to freshmen and transfer students that cover tuition costs for future Aggies.
• Eligibility: Students must belong to families earning less than $6000 annually.
• Net price: $20570
• ACT range: 29-31
• SAT range: 1160-1380
• Mail to: [email protected].

University of Texas, Dallas

• Aid programs: The University of Texas at Dallas assists students whose family income is at or below $65,000. They get financial assistance to cover full tuition fees through scholarships, Comet Promise funding, grants, and other tuition exemption programs.
• Net price: $32,926
• ACT range: 24-32
• SAT range: 1170-1430
• Mail to: 972-883-2111.

The University of Texas System

• Aid Programs: The University has adopted an Affordability Mindset to make education accessible and affordable for all students specially for those belonging to the low-income. category.

Financial assistance in the form of grants and scholarships for undergraduate students.

Promotes open educational resource to reduce educational costs

Emergency aid programs including food banks and temporary housing for students in emergency situations.

• Eligibility: Belong to a low-income household and show financial obstacles to pay for your education.
• Net price: May vary
• ACT range: 30-33
• SAT range: 1370-1600.
• Contact:  (512) 499-4200.

University of Texas at Austin

• Aid Programs: This college offers free tuition for low income in Texas through the Texas Advance Commitment for students with family income less than $65,000 annually. The university covers partial tuition for students who belong to families earning less than $125,000.
• Eligibility: Must be in-state students and belong to families earning less than $65,000 annually and maintain a GPA of 2 to qualify for this tuition-free college.
• Net price: $16589
• ACT range: 33
• SAT range: 1470
• Contact: 512-475-7399.

Rice University

• Aid Programs: Rice University is committed to make education affordable for low income students and so they offer financial support under the Rice Investment assistance based on family income:

Full tuition, room & board, and fees covered if family income is $75,000 or below.

Full tuition provided to families were earning between $75,000 to $150,000.

Half tuition granted to families who are earning between $150,000 to $200,000.

• Eligibility: In-state belonging to low-income families.
• Net price: $19902
• ACT range: 34-36
• SAT range: 1490-1570.
• Contact: 1-713-743-2255.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Utah

Utah State University

• Aid Programs: The Utah State University offers the Utah State Promise Scholarships for eligible students that cover the tuition cost if they complete submitting FAFSA within deadline.
• Eligibility: In-state, first-year, first-time students who are eligible for Pell Grant.
• Net price: $9228
• ACT range: 24-27
• SAT range: 1070-1300
• Contact: (435) 797-1000.

Westminster University

• Aid Programs: Free tuition to eligible students under the Westminster Commitment.
• Eligibility: High school graduates belonging to families earning less than $60,000. Must be a first-time or full-time undergraduate student and have a GPA of 3.3
• Net price: $26,956
• ACT range: 23-29
• SAT range: 1155-1365
• Contact: 801-832-2200.

Weber State University

• Aid Programs: Weber State University provides the Dream Weber Program that covers fees and tuition for eligible students.
• Eligibility: Must be Pell Grant eligible undergraduate students having less than 150 credit hours. Must belong to families earning less than $50,000 annually.
• Net price: $10493
• ACT range: 21-25
• SAT range: 1080
• Contact: 801-626-6000.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Vermont

The University of Vermont

• Aid Programs: The UVM Promise covers tuition if they submit FAFSA within deadline.
• Eligibility: First-year or transfer students who belong to families earning less than 60,000
• Net price: $21090
• ACT range: 28 to 32
• SAT range: 1260-1430
• Contact: (802) 656-3370.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Virginia

University of Virginia

• Aid Programs: The University of Virginia meets 100% of students demonstrating financial need, with nearly 35% of students getting need-based financial assistance. The financial aid packages include grants, scholarships, loans, and work study so that students can graduate without incurring any debt.
• Eligibility: In-state first-time undergraduate students from families earning less than $80,000 and assets less than $75,000.
• Net price: $20,401
• ACT range: 32-35
• SAT range: 1400-1540.
• Contact: 434-982-6000.

Virginia State University

• Aid Programs: Virginia State University offers the Virginia College Affordability Network Scholarship that helps eligible students to cover the tuition costs.
• Eligibility: In-state, first-year and Pell Grant eligible students with a high school GPA of 2.5.
• Net price: $11,155
• ACT range: 17-19
• SAT range: 830-1040
• Contact: 804-524-5000.

University of Richmond

• Aid Programs: Virginia students having annual household income less than $60,000 can qualify for grant-based financial assistance covering full-time tuition, a spider unlimited meal plan, and housing.
• Eligibility: In-state, first-year and first-time students belonging to families earning less than $75,000
• Net price: $28881
• ACT range: 32-34
• SAT range: 1400-1530
• Contact: 1+804-289-8000.

Norfolk State University

• Aid Programs: The Virginia College Affordability Network Scholarship helps students to cover tuition.
• Eligibility: In-state, Pell-Grant eligible, first-year students living within 45 miles of campus
• Net price: $12264
• ACT range: 16-19
• SAT range: 850-1040
• Contact: 757-823-8600.

William & Mary

• Aid Programs: The College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA provides tons of need-based college programs for low-income students in the form of grants, federal study and loans. The college is able to meet 100% of students’ demonstrated financial need to increase grants and reduce loans.
• Eligibility: In-state, Pell-grant eligible, undergraduate, first-year, returning, new and transfer students.
• Net price: $9216
• ACT range: 32-34
• SAT range: 1370-1510
• Contact: 757-221-4000.

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Washington

Washington State University

• Aid Programs: Washington State University supports low-income students and helps them with a wide area of financial aid programs such as the following:

Grants and scholarships for low-income students based on their financial need and academic achievements.

The Cougar Commitment covers fees and tuition for undocumented residents of Washington.

Students can apply for Federal loans including Parent PLUS loans for further financial resistance.

Employment opportunities and work study programs so that students can earn money to offset the cost of the education

• Eligibility: Pell-Grant eligible, first-time, in-state students who submit FAFSA or (WASFA).
• Net price: $16036
• ACT range: 20-26
• SAT range: 1000-1250
• Contact: 509-339-8105.

Washington and Lee University

• Aid Programs: Washington and Lee University is committed to meeting 100% of students’ demonstrated financial needs for a combination of scholarships, grants and on-campus employment.
• Eligibility: Undergraduate students must have family income below $150,000.
• Net price: $24,697
• ACT range: 32-34
• SAT range: 1410-1533
• Contact: 540-458-8400.

University Of Washington

• Aid Programs: The university is committed to make sure students from different economic backgrounds can access high quality education and so it offers varied financial aid options like scholarships, work study programs, loans and the grants.
• Eligibility: Low-income or Pell Grant eligible students.
• Net price: $8701
• ACT range: 27-30
• SAT range: 1320
• Contact: 206-543-2100.

Seattle University

• Aid Programs: The Seattle University Promise Scholarship offers transfer students with free tuition if they have a GPA of 3.0.
• Eligibility: Must enroll as Seattle Promise students and enroll in the Washington State College Bound Scholarship Program.
• Net price: $36843
• ACT range: 24-30
• SAT range: 1190-1390
• Contact: 206-296-6000.

Gonzaga University

• Aid Programs: Free tuition under the Gonzaga Access Pledge.
• Eligibility: In-state, first-year students, who submit FAFSA or WASFA.
• Net price: $21628
• ACT range: 26-31
• SAT range: 1210-1400
• Contact: +1-509-313-6582

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In West Virginia

Bluefield State University

• Aid Programs: This college for low-income offers free tuition through the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan.
• Eligibility: In-state, Pell Grant and WV Higher Ed Grant-eligible students who  submit FAFSA by 15th April can maintain a GPA of 2.0 in specific programs.
• Net price: $9019
• ACT range: 17-22
• SAT range: 870-1080
• Contact: 304.327.4000

Affordable or Free Colleges for Low Income Students In Wisconsin

Ripon College

• Aid Programs: Free tuition and fees for qualified students under the Ripon Commitment.
• Eligibility: Students who belong to families earning less than $75,000 annually.
• Net price: $18592
• ACT range: 19-27
• SAT range: 990-1170
• Contact: 92074 88115.

University of Wisconsin- Madison

• Aid Programs: The University of Wisconsin- Madison offers the Bucky’s Tuition Promise. This covers fees and tuition for qualified students.
• Eligibility: Students who belong to families earning less than $65,000 annually
• Net price: $12,651
• ACT range: 28-32
• SAT range: 1370-1490
• Contact: 608.262.3060.

You can also head to our next guide to learn how to obtain government grants for schools in the USA.

Tips for Low Income Students

Low-income students applying to institutions must consider the following tips to get the right assistance.

• Research the Best Financial Aid: While attending college, you must speak with an academic counselor and gather all documents regarding FAFSA forms, GPA, application forms, and standardized test scores.
• Keep Planning for Success: Students from low-income families can benefit a lot from the summer bridge programs. These are a critical resource to earn a degree and stay on course.
• Gather Support and Grow Your Network: Talk to an academic advisor about participating in support groups on campus. You can also meet other students on social networking pages and in school communities who share similar experiences as yours.

You can also apply for free tutoring programs for low-income families near you if you need a helping hand in your studies.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are navigating financial hardship to fund your college studies, then you can explore different avenues to access financial support. This guide has provided a list of the best colleges for low-income students to reduce the financial burden of higher education. Additionally, you can also leverage government grants for college, scholarships, financial aid, and work opportunities to make a college degree attainable and affordable. In this way, you can make sure financial challenges do not hinder your educational and career goals.

Are you interested in learning more about assistance programs and grants that can help you improve your living situation? Then check out the rest of our blogs at GrantsBuddy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Afford College When You Are Broke?

Students who want to afford college education without taking student loans can look into government grants, scholarships and federal student aid programs like the Pell Grant.

How To Go To College For Free In Illinois?

Students need to be a U.S. citizen or Illinois resident and have family income less than $65,100 and assets below $50,000 to qualify for free college education.

What Is The Cheapest Way To Get A College Degree?

One of the cheapest ways to get a bachelor’s degree is to earn an Associate’s degree and transfer to a four year education. This is because community colleges generally charge the lowest tuition rates.