New Hampshire students from middle- and lower-income families will soon be able to attend the state’s public universities without paying tuition. The University System of New Hampshire’s board of trustees has approved a new program called New Hampshire Promise, starting in the 2027-28 school year.
Who Qualifies
To get free tuition under New Hampshire Promise, students must:
- Be a New Hampshire resident
- Be a first-year, full-time student
- Have a high school GPA of 2.7 or higher
- Have a total family income of $100,000 or less
- Have already filed the FAFSA
What It Covers
The program provides free tuition for eligible students. Other costs, such as housing, meals and books, are not mentioned as part of the program, so families should still plan for those expenses.
How It Will Be Funded
According to NHPR, the program will use money from existing financial aid programs for students who receive Pell Grants.
Why the FAFSA Matters
Since filing the FAFSA is required, students hoping to qualify should complete it as early as possible. The 2027-28 FAFSA is already open at StudentAid.gov.
What Families Should Do Now
High school seniors in New Hampshire who plan to start college in fall 2027 should:
- File the 2027-28 FAFSA.
- Check their GPA against the 2.7 requirement.
- Contact the admissions or financial aid office at their chosen state university for more details.
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