The University of Utah has unveiled Utah Promise, a new program that covers 100% of tuition and mandatory fees for qualifying first-year Utah students whose families report household income and assets under $100,000. The initiative aims to expand access to a four-year degree starting Fall 2026, combining university, state, and federal aid so eligible students see no billed tuition or required fees on their accounts.
Who qualifies
To be considered, students must be Utah residents, first-time, first-year undergraduates, and submit the FAFSA so the university can verify the income and asset threshold. Communications around the rollout also note an unweighted high school GPA of 3.5 or higher as an academic benchmark for consideration. Final eligibility rules will be confirmed in the 2026 admission cycle.
What the scholarship covers
Utah Promise is designed to fill any tuition-and-fee gap left after Pell Grants and other need-based aid are applied. It covers full tuition and mandatory fees for up to eight semesters (four years) of full-time study, provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress and continue to meet eligibility requirements.
Why the U. is doing this
University leaders frame Utah Promise as a “no-tuition doorway” for middle- and lower-income families who might otherwise delay or forgo college. The program aligns with broader state priorities around workforce development, helping more residents earn degrees in high-demand fields without taking on heavy tuition debt.
How to apply (at a glance)
- Apply for admission to the University of Utah as a first-time, first-year student.
- Complete the FAFSA as soon as it opens so income and assets can be verified under the $100,000 threshold.
- Confirm Utah residency status with required documentation.
- Meet academic benchmarks, including the 3.5 unweighted GPA noted in program guidance.
- Watch official deadlines for the Fall 2026 cycle and respond promptly to any verification requests.
What it means for families
For households hovering just above traditional Pell Grant cutoffs, Utah Promise can be the difference between commuting to a lower-cost option or attending the state’s flagship campus without tuition charges. Because the award stacks with other aid, many families may also see lower out-of-pocket costs for fees that are normally billed each term.
Frequently asked questions from parents and students
Does it cover housing, books, or meals?
No. Utah Promise focuses on tuition and mandatory fees. Students can still use grants, waivers, scholarships, work-study, and reasonable borrowing to help with room, board, books, and personal expenses.
Is the $100,000 threshold based on income only?
Program materials indicate both income and assets must be under $100,000, determined through the FAFSA. Families should complete the form accurately and be prepared to provide documentation.
What if my GPA is just below 3.5?
The GPA listed in early guidance is an academic bar for consideration. The university often evaluates overall academic record and context, so students close to the benchmark are still encouraged to apply and submit all supporting materials.
Can transfer or returning students qualify?
The initiative is geared to first-time, first-year undergraduates. Transfer and returning students should explore existing need-based and merit programs the university already offers.
Is the award guaranteed for all four years?
Students can receive support for up to eight semesters, as long as they remain full-time, maintain satisfactory progress, and continue to meet income/asset criteria based on annual FAFSA submissions.
