Earlier this month College of the Canyons introduced their First-Year-Promise program aimed at reducing some of the financial stressors and barriers for full-time students entering their first year.

College of the Canyons is now accepting applications for its First-Year Promise (FYP) program, which will provide increased opportunities for new full-time college students to achieve their educational goals by waiving tuition and fees during their first year of study.

The pathway will launch this fall with an estimated 300 qualifying students.  

To be eligible, students must be a California resident (or AB540-eligible student) and a graduate from the William S. Hart Union High School District or neighboring school district in spring 2017.

Eligible incoming students will enroll in a one-year sequence of courses with priority registration, preceded by summer orientation to learn about majors and receive academic guidance.

FYP courses will be offered with the benefits of OER textbooks and other learning community elements. To ensure participating students remain on track, ongoing counseling and student support will also be offered.

Related Story: COC To Launch First Year Promise Grant Program In Fall

Additionally, each FYP student will receive a $100 voucher per semester that can be applied toward other supplies and instructional materials. The college will also provide a parking pass or city bus pass, in addition to free computer lab printing services.

Students chosen to participate in First-Year Promise can save as much as $1,500 in enrollment fees and other expenses.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible for priority consideration. The application window closes Monday, May 15.

FYP is funded through a $667,000 grant from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office (CCCCO).

Out of 51 community college districts that applied, COC was one of only 14 colleges awarded a CCCCO grant through the California College Promise Innovation Grant Program.

Ed. Note: This article is a press release from College of the Canyons.