The cost of higher education can be intimidating.
Americans are increasingly questioning whether college is worth the price, as student loan debt tops $1.6 trillion and the average tuition has doubled in the past 30 years. At the same time, new federal caps on how much parents can borrow for college could place higher education further out of reach for some families.
Against that backdrop, a growing number of schools are making college more affordable by providing free tuition to undergraduate students from low- and middle-income families. Just in the past few months, Swarthmore College, Rice University and Boston University joined the ranks of schools waiving tuition for families earning $200,000 or less. The tuition-free movement dates back 20 years but has gained momentum in the past decade, largely fueled by state policies.
We set out to catalogue free-tuition programs and found nearly 1,000 — in 45 states, at two-year colleges, four-year universities, vocational schools and elite private campuses. You can look up schools using the tool below. And if your school offers free tuition but is not on the list, let us know by filling out this submission form.
Policymakers say education beyond high school — whether it be vocational training or a degree — is crucial to the United States’ economic prosperity, and they are backing free-tuition programs with that aim in mind.
The programs vary in size and scope, covering the cost of tuition for students based on where they live, household income or academic qualifications. Some have academic requirements or are open only to area residents. Others focus on fields of study that state leaders say are in high demand. All cover the cost of tuition and fees with a mix of grants and scholarships that students do not have to pay back.
Tuition is only a portion of the cost of attendance, separate from housing, books, food and transportation costs. But it is a considerable expense. And these financial pledges are designed to send a clear message that higher education is within reach.
This is not an exhaustive list, but a way to help families get a sense of affordable options. We encourage you to delve deeper into any of the following programs that pique your interest.
This database was first published on Feb. 9, 2026, and is updated regularly. If your school’s free-tuition program is not yet on our list, please fill out this submission form.
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