The University of Utah has unveiled a significant initiative called Utah Promise, aimed at providing financial support for eligible undergraduate students from families earning less than $100,000 annually. Starting in Fall 2026, this program will fully cover tuition and mandatory fees for Utah resident students, enhancing access to higher education across the state.
Under this initiative, first-time, first-year students graduating from high school with an unweighted GPA of 3.5 or higher will be eligible. The program will fund tuition and fees for up to four years of full-time enrollment, allowing students to focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress.
Commitment to Accessibility in Education
“This is a transformative step for the University of Utah,” said Taylor Randall, the university’s president. “No student should have to choose between pursuing a college education and their family’s financial security. Utah Promise ensures that higher education is within reach for thousands of talented students across our state.”
To qualify, students must submit their application for admission by the university’s priority deadline of December 1 and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 1. Applications for Utah residents are free of charge. Maintaining eligibility requires annual FAFSA submissions, along with adherence to income and asset levels, full-time course loads, and a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Enhancing Educational Opportunities for All
“Utahns deserve affordable, high-quality education that prepares them for their eventual careers,” stated Mitzi M. Montoya, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Utah Promise is about investing in the people and future of our state. It gives more students the freedom to focus on learning, leadership, and discovery without the stress of overwhelming tuition bills.”
This initiative builds on the university’s existing financial aid programs and will utilize a combination of public and private donor funding to eliminate tuition and fee costs for qualifying students. By reducing financial barriers, Utah Promise aims to improve college access and completion rates, particularly for first-generation students and families navigating the higher education system.
In addition to Utah Promise, the University of Utah has recently streamlined its merit scholarship process and continues to support students through the For Utah scholarship, which covers tuition and fees for Pell Grant-eligible students. For more details about Utah Promise, eligibility requirements, and the application process, visit the University of Utah’s official website.
