Bill would fund tuition-free community college and student support

The Education Secretary would fund $0 tuition and fees at participating community colleges and eligible Tribal colleges. Students must attend at least half time, generally qualify for resident tuition, stay within six covered semesters, and not be in dual enrollment; U.S. citizens must file the federal student-aid form. States must apply, maintain required higher-education spending, improve coordination between schools and colleges, and pay a share that rises to 20%. Qualifying states could receive temporary relief during higher unemployment. Tribal colleges would be exempt from state-only rules, and immigration status could not disqualify a student. Awards would begin in 2027–2028, with whatever funding is needed set aside for fiscal year 2027 and every later fiscal year.

The Education Secretary would award Student Success Fund grants for approved plans to improve student results. Only states and Tribal colleges already receiving the tuition-free community college grants could apply. Recipients would provide nonfederal support that rises from 25% of the federal grant in years one through four to 100% from year nine onward. The Secretary could reduce or waive this requirement for Tribal colleges. Up to 5% could cover administration. Grants could not fund endowments, athletics, religious teaching or worship, or certain contractor recruiting. The proposal would set aside $1 billion for fiscal year 2027 and every later fiscal year, with money remaining available until spent.

The Education Secretary would give eligible colleges grants to encourage degree completion, community college transfers, and reforms that support students. A college must be public or nonprofit, have at least 35% low-income students, and commit to proven reforms. Covered students must have low incomes, attend at least half time, and stay within 60 credits and six semesters. Money could only waive or reduce tuition and fees for the first 60 credits. Per-student grants could not exceed average public four-year tuition. If available funding falls short, the Secretary could reduce awards or take other steps to distribute the money fairly. Funding would start at $98.1 million for fiscal year 2027 and reach about $2.52 billion for fiscal year 2036 and every later year. Each year’s money would remain available for two more fiscal years.