The Indian River State College Promise Program: Tuition-Free College

A Tuition-Free Degree for Every Local High School Graduate

What is the Promise Program?

The Indian River State College Promise Program is a bold commitment to the students and families of the Treasure Coast. It is a tuition-free scholarship program sponsored by the Indian River State College Foundation, designed to ensure that every qualifying high school graduate in Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties can earn an associate degree.

Launched to bridge the widening gap between talent and opportunity, the Promise Program operates on a “last-dollar” funding model. This means that after a student’s other financial aid (such as the Pell Grant) has been applied, the Foundation covers the remaining balance for tuition. The student is responsible for fees and books.

The goal is simple but transformative: to remove the financial barrier to higher education. By investing in students, we are not only changing individual lives but also securing the economic future of our region. Our graduates carry forward the generosity of a community that invested in their potential. Because donors removed the financial barriers, our students step into the workforce with the freedom to build their career, create stability for their family, and shape the future for themselves and our community.

Student Eligibility Guide

Residency

Must be a resident of Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, or St. Lucie county.

Graduation

Graduate from a public, private, or charter high school (or eligible homeschool) within the service district this academic year. Find a list of all eligible schools here.

The Pledge

Sign the official Promise Pledge by the posted deadline during your senior year.

FAFSA

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to verify eligibility.

Enrollment

Enroll full-time (minimum 12 credits) at Indian River State College for the fall term immediately following graduation.

Learn More

The Donor Impact

When you fund the Promise, you fund the future of our community.

The Sustainer

$7 / Month

Small gifts create massive impact. If everyone in our community provided this gift, monthly for one year, we can ensure that the Promise Program is funded in perpetuity, which means forever, ensuring tuition-free college for generations to come.

Sponsor a Semester

$1,246

You can lift the burden for one student right now. This gift covers the average cost of tuition for one full-time semester, allowing a Promise student to focus on their grades instead of their bills.

The Full Degree

$6,230

Your gift can change a trajectory from start to finish. By funding the entire cost of a two-year associate degree, you are launching a graduate into the local workforce with financial freedom to build a brighter future.

Meet the Promise Scholars

“My scholarship has allowed me to become the first in my family to earn a degree… Thank you for believing in me.”

— Damaris Olivera

“This scholarship has allowed me to receive a college education completely debt-free… I am on my way to becoming a Nurse.”

— Diana Rodriguez

“Receiving this scholarship means more than financial support. It’s a vote of confidence in my goals and potential.”

— Kurt R.

“This support allows me to focus on my studies and build a better future for my family.”

— Liying F.

“This opportunity reminds me it’s never too late to grow and pursue your education.”

— Norma M.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Last-Dollar” mean?

It means the Promise Program pays for tuition after all other grant aid has been applied. If you receive a Pell Grant that covers 50% of your tuition, the Promise pays the remaining 50%.

Does it cover books or housing?

No. The Promise Program covers tuition. It does not cover fees, textbooks, transportation, or housing.

Is there an income limit?

No. The Promise Program is not means-tested. It is available to all eligible high school graduates within the service district, regardless of household income.

Can transfer students get the Promise?

Currently, the Promise Program is reserved for students entering the College directly from high school. Transfer students should apply for other Foundation scholarships.

Ready to Change a Life?

Your donation ensures the Promise is kept for the next generation.

Donate to Promise

Student Application

Are you a high school senior ready to apply?

Visit Admissions & Apply