Copyright Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — A college in New York state will offer families making less than $175,000 an opportunity for a tuition-free education. Colgate University, a private liberal arts college in Hamilton, New York, will offer students with a total family income up to $175,000 to attend the college tuition-free, starting next fall. Additionally, those with a family income of up to $200,000 will have their demonstrated aid need met without loans. It’s part of the university’s plan, the Colgate Commitment, which aims to increase access and affordability. The new income level for eliminating tuition more than doubles the no-tuition threshold that was established in 2020. This expansion also increases the amount of students who won’t see a federal loan as part of their financial aid offer. “Expanding the Colgate Commitment opens the doors of this world-class University to more exceptional students from all walks of life,” said President Brian W. Casey. Colgate will now become more affordable for those in middle and upper-middle income tax brackets. For example, families with an annual income between $175,000 and $200,000 will, on average, now pay 5% of their income toward tuition. “Applying for financial aid can feel complicated and overwhelming,” said Gina Soliz, senior associate dean and director of financial aid. “This expansion of the Colgate Commitment helps simplify the financial aid process and increases the number of students who will benefit from having loans replaced with Colgate grants.” You can learn more about the details of this aid program, along with frequently asked questions, at colgate.edu/colgatecommitment.
