Promise Program

INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE PROMISE PROGRAM

The Indian River State College Promise program offers qualifying graduates the opportunity to obtain a tuition-free Associate degree, making higher education accessible to all. There are no family income requirements, and outstanding high school grades are not a prerequisite. The Promise empowers students to focus entirely on their educational aspirations without the burden of tuition costs.

The Indian River State College Promise is an exceptional last-dollar tuition assistance program sponsored by the Indian River State College Foundation, supported by generous donations from philanthropists and investment proceeds. Although the Indian River State College Promise Program has no cash value, it has made a significant impact since its launch in 2022, providing thousands of local students with valuable pathways to higher education. Seize this opportunity today!

Promise Commitment Opens January 14, 2025

IRSC Promise Commitment

IRSC promise program shirt

PROMISE PROGRAM VIRTUAL INFORMATION WEBINARS:

Join us to learn about the Promise Program in a friendly and welcoming environment! This is a great opportunity to gain valuable information and ask any questions you might have. Let’s work together to take the next steps toward your bright future with the Indian River State College Promise Program. We can’t wait to see you there and support your journey!

Learn More

PROMISE INFORMATION SESSIONS (Upcoming)

Date: June 2, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM EST

Register here

Recording link:

Promise Information Session (Spanish)

Recorded Promise Information Sessions - Dec 12 2024

HOW TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROMISE PROGRAM:

- - Be a U.S. citizen eligible for in-state tuition or a non-U.S. Citizen eligible for in-state tuition.
  - Promise is available at the in-state rate only. Non-Florida residents will be responsible for the out-of-state portion of their tuition and fees.

REQUIRED STEPS TO QUALIFY:

1. Apply to Indian River State College -- submit the application for admission for an A.A., A.S., or A.A.S. degree for Fall 2025. (receive IRSC ID #) Apply Now
  1. Complete residency (Complete Florida Residency Workday Inbox)
2. Promise Information Sessions – Webinars
  1. Be ready to sign the promise commitment – attend a promise info session.
  2. December 12 @ 6 PM | January 9 @ 6 PM | Feb. 3 @ 6 PM | Feb. 19 @ 6 PM
  3. Register
3. IRSC Promise Commitment
4. *PERT/ACT/ SAT Entrance exam required for Private and home school.
  - Home school & private school students are required to complete placement testing on the PERT, ACT, SAT, Classic Learning Test or use any of the approved alternative placement measures to meet the placement testing requirement. Students are responsible for having official testing records sent to Indian River State College. Placement scores expire two years after the testing date, and are no longer valid for placement purposes. For more details on placement testing and approved alternative placement measures, please see the link: irsc.edu/admissions/pert-test
5. Complete the 2025-26 FAFSA - FAFSA at studentaid.gov
6. Attend registration night for minimum 12 credits: Register
  1. Monday, June 9 Health Science
  2. Wednesday, June 11 Education
  3. Thursday, June 12 Workforce/Advanced Tech
  4. Monday, June 16 Business
  5. Tuesday, June 17 Public Service
  6. Wednesday, June 18 Math/Science/Humanities
Register for Fall 2025 courses, minimum 12 credits
1. Register for the Fall New Student Orientation (Registration to open soon)
2. Submit Your Official High School Transcripts by July 14, 2025

For assistance or more information email promise@irsc.edu.

man is signing the promise program

CONTINUING PROMISE STUDENTS

The Promise program will be renewed for students who:

- - Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress;
  - Enroll full-time in the fall term (at least 12 credits), the spring term (at least 12 credits), and the summer term (at least 6 credits); and
  - Renew their FAFSA by July 31 (school code 001493).

PROMISE PROGRAM STUDENT TESTIMONIAL

Veronica Rodriguez of Indian River County completed half of the coursework necessary for her Associate in Arts Degree in the Health Science track while dual-enrolled at IRSC during high school. She used the Promise program to finish up her degree and graduated in fall 2023. “I wanted to go to college, but I was worried about all the financial aspects of it. That’s a big burden people carry, and I know that’s a reason why people don’t go to college,” she said. “I don’t have to go far. I felt safe going to IRSC, versus going out-of-state or going to a different city.”

PROMISE PROGRAM PEP RALLIES

Experience the Spirit of the Promise Program Transforming Communities and Igniting Hope!

PROMISE PROGRAM FAQ's

Is there an application fee?

Yes, there is a $20 application fee to apply to IRSC. There is no fee to pledge to the Promise Program.

Are there any other costs apart from tuition for the Promise Program?

There are additional costs associated with college that you should budget for, including fees, books, supplies, computer/laptop, transportation, rent, and food.  Examples of fees you could be responsible for include distance learning fees, lab fees, and other special fees. 

For more information on Indian River State College fees, visit http://irsc.smartcatalogiq.com/en/current/Catalog/Services-to-Students/Pay-for-Classes-Fees. 

Do students have to take the P.E.R.T.?

Students graduating from a Florida public high school in 2025 are exempt from the P.E.R.T. per Senate Bill 1720, but are strongly encouraged to complete a placement assessment to ensure success.

Private/home school students are required to complete the P.E.R.T. placement testing.

Does the Promise apply to career-training (non-degree) certificates?

At this time, Promise only applies to Associate Degree Programs: Associate in Arts (A.A.), Associate in Science (A.S.), and Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S) programs.

Several IRSC associate programs allow you to earn industry certifications as you progress toward your degree. These include A.S. and A.A.S. programs in trades such as Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating Systems Technology; Automotive Service Management Technology; Building Construction Technology; Criminal Justice Technology; and Fire Science Technology.

View IRSC Associate in Science/Associate in Applied Science Degree programs at https://irsc.edu/programs/associate-in-science-degree-programs.html.

If I complete the Promise Commitment by the deadline but don’t enroll for classes in the Fall 2025 semester, can I still be in the Promise Program?

No, students must complete all Promise admissions requirements by July 14, 2025 to participate in Promise 2025.

Can I sign up for more than 12 credit hours in my first term?

Yes. Students can take more than 12 credits each semester, not to exceed 19 credits per semester. 

Can I start taking classes in summer as part of the Promise Program?

You may take classes in the summer term after your senior year; however, Promise Program funding will not begin until the Fall 2025 term. If you need financial aid for summer tuition, meet with a Financial Aid Team Member to discuss your options.

How many Promise program participants are projected to continue on for a four-year degree afterward?

That is unknown at this time. However, data shows that once a student steps on the escalator of higher education, they will continue. We are confident that the opportunity to earn a tuition-paid Associate Degree at IRSC can inspire an educational awakening that will continue throughout one’s life.

What if I was placed on Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) failed status during dual enrollment?

Incoming Promise students on SAP suspension from dual enrollment will get a one-term automatic warning to meet SAP standards. They should meet with a Financial Aid Team Member to review SAP requirements and plan their Fall credits for continued eligibility beyond Fall 2025.

Is there a minimum high school GPA to apply? 

Students must meet the minimum 2.0 GPA required for high school graduation.   

Are private school students eligible for the Promise? 

Yes. Please see the list of eligible approved private schools.

Are homeschooled students eligible for the Promise?

Yes, eligible 2025 in-district homeschool graduates are eligible for the Promise Program. 

What's an eligible homeschool graduate?

In-district 2025 homeschool students need to provide an IRSC Homeschool Affidavit Form + School District Letter acknowledging the establishment or termination of their home education program.

Are Dual Enrollment students eligible for the Promise? 

Yes. Any student that is a 2025 graduate from an in-district public or public charter high school or an eligible 2025 in-district homeschool graduate, regardless of incoming credit, can pledge to the IRSC Promise program.

Are G.E.D.® students eligible for the Promise?

G.E.D.® students are not yet eligible for the IRSC Promise program. We will continue to evaluate the program for next year to make expansion plans.  

We encourage G.E.D.® students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and apply for IRSC Foundation Scholarships for assistance with funding.

Are DACA students eligible for the Promise?

As of July 1, 2025, DACA students are no longer eligible for the Promise Program. These students will be responsible for paying out-of-state tuition rates out of pocket, with no tuition waivers available. 

Are Florida Virtual School students eligible for the Promise? 

No. Only graduates of public and public charter high schools in Martin, Indian River, Okeechobee, and St Lucie counties or eligible in-district homeschool graduates are eligible.  

We encourage Florida Virtual School graduates to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and apply for IRSC Foundation Scholarships for assistance with funding.

Do students have to be Florida Residents to qualify for the Promise?

Qualifying for Florida Residency for Tuition Purposes is not a requirement for Promise. However, Promise funding will only cover the in-state tuition rate and is only available to students who are U.S. Citizens or lawfully present in the U.S. Students must submit the Florida Residency Declaration Form (Form FRD-1), on or before July 14, 2025, to establish Florida residency. Students who have a valid immigration status but cannot qualify for in-state residency may qualify for a HS Waiver that would waive the out-of-state portion of their tuition. But it is also possible that students may have to cover the out-of-state portion of their tuition and fees themselves. Contact Student Records for more information. 

For more information on residency, click here: https://irsc.edu/admissions/procedure-for-florida-resident-for-tuition-purposes.html

Are undocumented students eligible for the Promise?

As of July 1, 2025, undocumented students are no longer eligible for the Promise Program. These students will be responsible for paying out-of-state tuition rates out of pocket, with no tuition waivers available. 

What if I am not a U.S. Citizen and don’t have an eligible immigration status?

The Promise Program is only available to students who are U.S. Citizens or lawfully present in the U.S. If you have questions about your immigration status, please contact Student Records at records@irsc.edu or join the Student Records QLess line.

If I already have Florida Pre-paid, can I still be eligible for the Promise?

The IRSC Promise Program allows families with 529 plans, like Florida Prepaid, to stretch their investments even further. Those seeking to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree after completing an IRSC Associate Degree tuition-free can apply pre-paid balances toward that next educational milestone. Unused Florida Pre-Paid monies may also be returned to you; see www.myfloridaprepaid.com for details. 

Am I still eligible for the Promise if I already have Bright Futures or scholarships?

Bright Futures Scholarships will be applied first and Promise will cover the remaining tuition balance.

What if I complete an A.A. concurrent with 2025 high school graduation and want to pursue an A.S. at IRSC?

In this case, you would qualify for the Promise program to complete an A.S. Degree.

Am I eligible if I'm part of the 2025 graduating class but finished classes early in December? 

Yes, any student who completes high school during the 2024-25 academic year is part of the 2025 graduating class and is eligible for the Promise.

Do students have to demonstrate financial need or be first generation students to qualify? 

No, the Promise is not based on need, however Promise students must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year. 

What if a student needs fewer than 12 credits to complete an Associate Degree in fall 2025?

Promise will cover credits up to the completion of the Associate Degree.

If I pay for the tuition for my summer classes after my senior year, can I still be eligible for the Promise Program for the Fall semester?

Yes, if you cover the cost of tuition for your summer classes you are eligible to participate in the Promise Program for the Fall term. 

Are IRSC student-athletes eligible for the Promise Program?

Student-athletes receiving the Promise Program award are subject to additional grade point average (GPA) requirements per NJCAA and FCSAA rules and regulations. The eligibility to maintain the financial benefit of the Promise Program and continue to compete under NJCAA and FCSAA guidelines is contingent upon maintaining the standards outlined by these governing bodies. The IRSC Athletic Director will monitor the determination of eligibility at Indian River State College. Anyone with questions should contact the Athletic Department for more information.

What do I need to do to stay eligible for the Promise Program?

- - Promise students are encouraged to enroll full-time in the fall term (at least 12 credits), the spring term (at least 12 credits), and the summer term (at least 6 credits).
  - Promise students must adhere to the Indian River State College Financial Aid Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), which will be reviewed and calculated at the end of each term.

Promise students must renew the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025–26 academic year.

What happens if it takes me more than 60 credits to get my degree? Will the Promise cover my tuition? 

The Promise Program is two-year in-state tuition paid program. The majority of the Associate Degree programs require 60 credits for completion. Students attending full-time each semester (minimum 12 credits) , including summer (minimum 6 credits), will be on track to earning their associate degree in two years.

Some associate degree programs over 60 credits require an additional application for admission or must be started in a student’s first semester at IRSC. Students considering these programs should consult an advisor about requirements before Fall 2025.

What happens if I fail a class, but maintain the required GPA? Will the Promise be taken away?  

- - As long as students maintain the minimum cumulative GPA requirement and minimum completion rate requirement as outlined in the IRSC Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress policy, students will remain eligible for Promise Funding. 
  - Promise students whose cumulative GPA and/or cumulative completion rate fall below the standards of SAP will be placed on one term of warning for the following term.
  - Promise students that do not meet both the required cumulative GPA and cumulative completion rate at the end of their “warning” term will no longer be eligible for Promise funding.

Is there a minimum GPA required?

- - The Promise Program follows the minimum cumulative GPA requirement established by the IRSC Financial Aid Office, visit https://irsc.edu/financial-aid/satisfactory-academic-progress.html

What if I was placed on SAP failed status during dual enrollment?

Incoming Promise students on SAP suspension from dual enrollment will get a one-term automatic warning to meet SAP standards. They should meet with a Financial Aid Team Member to review SAP requirements and plan their Fall credits for continued eligibility beyond Fall 2025.

Are there additional requirements for Promise?

- Complete the SLS1501 Orientation Course in the first semester.
- Meet with an academic advisor to develop an academic plan.
- Participate and complete the First-Year Experience Program.
- Maintain regular attendance in all classes.
- Transportation: Arrange reliable transportation to classes and campus facilities.
- Technology: Access to a laptop and internet is essential. IRSC libraries provide on-campus resources if needed.

How long am I able to receive Promise funding?

The Promise Program starts the Fall semester after high school graduation and is available for two years as long as the student meets the Satisfactory Academic Progress and Renewal requirements.

Students who successfully complete a minimum of 12 credits during the fall and spring semesters and 6 credits during the summer semester are typically on track to complete their degree within two years. Those who require more than two years to complete their associate degree or plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree may continue applying for Federal Student Aid and scholarships.

What is last dollar funding?

The last dollar means the Promise will cover any tuition costs after financial aid and scholarships have been applied.

Is the Promise program considered to be a type of educational grant?

The Promise Program is not a grant or scholarship. It is a tuition-paid program sponsored by the IRSC Foundation and funded through generous donor philanthropy and unrestricted investment proceeds.

If I get financial aid, does the IRSC Promise still apply to me?

The Promise will cover any in-state tuition balance not covered by financial aid or scholarships.

If I don’t qualify for Financial Aid or Scholarships will the Promise Program cover my tuition?

Yes, the Promise Program will cover the cost of tuition for a student who doesn’t qualify for Financial Aid or Scholarships.

If I get financial aid or scholarships, can I get cashback for the Promise Program?

No, the Promise Program is last-dollar funding, meaning it will cover any tuition cost after financial aid and scholarships have been applied.

Financial aid students may be eligible for additional funds to cover education-related expenses; see the financial aid office for details. There is no cash value to the Promise Program.

What if I have additional course and program fees that need to be paid and I can’t pay the total payment by the deadline?

All students are eligible to enroll on our Nelnet Tuition Payment Plan. This plan lets you pay your remaining fees through a monthly payment plan, making college more affordable. It is simple to enroll and can be done through this link: https://mycollegepaymentplan.com/irsc/

What if I am not eligible for the Promise Program?

Students not eligible for the Promise Program should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and apply for IRSC Foundation Scholarships for assistance with funding. 

Are there renewal requirements for the Promise Program?

Yes. The Promise program is two-year program, and each year the student must complete the FAFSA and meet the minimum cumulative GPA requirement established by the IRSC Financial Aid Office, visit https://irsc.edu/financial-aid/satisfactory-academic-progress.html.

For help contact your Student Success Coach or call us at 772-462-4772.

This information may be updated to reflect any future adjustments in institutional, state, or federal policies.

*Information is subject to change.

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