STLCC Launches Promise Program with Free Tuition, Books and Career Support

October 13, 2026

STLCC students socializing in the cafeteria

St. Louis Community College is launching the STLCC Promise Program, a new initiative designed to make college more affordable and help students earn credentials and prepare for high-demand careers.

The program will cover tuition and books for eligible students after other financial aid is applied. Students will also receive proactive academic advising, tutoring, career coaching and other support to help them stay in college and complete a certificate or associate degree. STLCC Promise Program will target prospective students living in the City of St. Louis and North St. Louis County

“The College is initially targeting these areas of the region, based on research showing a history of disinvestment in resources and opportunity,” said Jeff L. Pittman, PhD, STLCC chancellor. “We are aligning this initiative with organizations such as the new Inclusive Prosperity Partnership (IPP), which aims to help our entire region grow by investing in the often-overlooked talent in St. Louis and North St. Louis County. IPP is advancing economic mobility in this part of the region by expanding access to quality jobs and creating pathways for career growth.”

Applications open in October 2026, with the first group of students beginning in spring 2027.

“The STLCC Promise Program is about removing barriers and creating real opportunities for students in our community,” Pittman continued. “Students should not have to choose between pursuing an education and meeting their basic needs. This program combines financial help with the academic, personal and career support students need to reach their goals.”

Funds for the STLCC Promise Program are provided by STLCC and the College’s Foundation.

A Promise That Goes Beyond Tuition

The STLCC Promise program is designed to help students from their first day at STLCC through graduation and into the workforce.

Students accepted into the program will receive:

Free tuition and books after eligible financial aid is applied.
Academic advising and tutoring to help students stay on track.
Emergency assistance and support services through STLCC’s Student Advocacy and Resource Centers (SARC), including MetroLink and MetroBus passes and emergency aid.
College preparation and support programs to help students build strong study skills and confidence.
Progress checks throughout each semester, so students know how they are doing in their classes.
Career preparation and employer connections, including resume help, career coaching and networking opportunities.

The program will focus on fields that can lead to high-demand careers, with wages averaging about $50,000 a year.

Programs That Lead to In-Demand Careers

During the pilot, STLCC Promise students will attend STLCC at Forest Park or Florissant Valley.

Eligible programs include:

Advanced Manufacturing and Transportation

Business and Computer Information Technology

Health Professions

Health professions programs have selective admission requirements. Students must complete required courses during the spring and summer 2027 semesters before beginning these programs full time in fall 2027.

Who Can Apply?

The STLCC Promise pilot is open to new STLCC students who:

Plan to attend STLCC-Forest Park or STLCC-Florissant Valley.
Live in St. Louis City or North St. Louis County.
Meet STLCC general admission requirements.
Show financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Are entering college for the first time or have completed fewer than 30 college credits and have not earned a degree.
Commit to attending college full time and taking part in required STLCC Promise activities.

A Two-Way Promise

The program is built around a shared commitment. STLCC will provide financial assistance and support, while students will commit to staying engaged and working toward completing their credential.

Students will enroll full time, meet regularly with advisors, take part in student success activities and use tutoring and other college resources when needed. Students will also participate in career preparation opportunities that can help them move from college into the workforce.

“Full-time enrollment is an important part of the program because it can help students build momentum and stay connected to college,” said LaShanda Boone, campus vice president, chief student affairs officer at STLCC-Forest Park. “At the same time, STLCC recognizes that attending college while working, caring for family and paying everyday expenses can be difficult. The Promise program is designed to reduce those barriers so students can focus on their education and future.”