Indian River State College Now Accepting Applications for 2026 Promise Program: Two Years of Tuition-Free College for Local High School Graduates 

FORT PIERCE, FL (January 8, 2026) – Indian River State College is now accepting applications for its 2026 Promise Program, offering local high school graduates the opportunity to earn an associate degree with 100% of in-state tuition covered. 

Four students standing beside a blue and yellow promotional banner for Indian River State College Promise Program. The banner reads "Attention Seniors!" at the top and "Secure your tuition-free degree today!" at the bottom, with a QR code. The students are wearing ID badges and casual clothing, positioned in what appears to be a school library or media center with yellow cabinets visible in the background.
Indian River State College signed up its first 2026 Promise Program students at an event at Jensen Beach High School on January 7, 2026.   

Program Overview 

The Indian River State College Promise Program provides eligible 2026 graduates from public, charter, approved private, or in-district homeschool students in Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties with two years of tuition-free education leading to an Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, or Associate in Applied Science degree. 

“This is your opportunity to pursue higher education without the burden of tuition costs,” said Dr. Timothy E. Moore, Indian River State College president. “If you’re graduating high school in 2026, I encourage you to apply today. The Promise Program can open doors to your future career, help you explore your interests, and let you earn a degree right here in your community. Don’t wait – take this step toward your goals.” 

Program Highlights 

  • Free Tuition: Covers 100% of in-state tuition for eligible students 
  • Two-Year Completion: Students can earn their degree in six terms or less 
  • No GPA or Income Requirements: Open to all qualifying 2026 graduates who meet program deadlines 
  • Local Opportunity: Available to students from four counties in the Treasure Coast region. 
  • Applications Now Open: Eligible students can apply today 

How to Apply 

Interested students should: 

  1. Apply to Indian River State College and select “Promise 2026” in their application. Applications can be completed on the College’s website at irsc.edu. 
  1. Submit the 2026-2027 FAFSA (school code: 001493) and Florida Residency Documents 
  1. Send official high school transcripts 
  1. Register for classes (minimum 12 credit hours) 
  1. Complete all requirements by July 13, 2026. Students are strongly encouraged to begin the application process early, as completing all required forms and documentation can take several weeks. 

Promise 2026 Road Show 

Indian River State College is bringing the Promise Program directly to students through the 2026 Promise Program Road Show, visiting high schools across the Treasure Coast throughout January. The Road Show will visit Martin County High School, Sebastian River High School, Indiantown High School, Indian River Charter High School, Vero Beach High School, Okeechobee High School, Jensen Beach High School, St Lucie West Centennial, Fort Pierce Central High School, South Fork High School, John Carroll High School, Clark Advanced Learning Center, Indian River Charter High School, and Somerset between January 8-29, 2026. Students can get information, ask questions, and receive application assistance during these campus visits.  

Learn More  

Prospective students and families are invited to watch a recorded information session to learn more about the Promise Program, eligibility requirements, application process, and student success resources. 

Important Information 

While the Promise Program covers tuition, students should budget for additional college expenses including fees, books, supplies, technology, transportation, and living costs. Promise students must maintain satisfactory academic progress and complete renewal requirements each year to continue receiving funding. 

Program Funding and Economic Impact 

The Promise Program is funded through generous donor philanthropy and unrestricted investment proceeds managed by the Indian River State College Foundation. The program uses a “last dollar” funding model, covering any tuition costs remaining after financial aid and scholarships are applied. 

By enabling more students to earn degrees in high-demand fields, the program helps develop a skilled workforce for the Treasure Coast region while allowing graduates to build careers without student debt. 

About Indian River State College 

Indian River State College serves students across Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties, offering associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and workforce training programs. The College is committed to providing accessible, affordable higher education to the Treasure Coast region. 

Contact Information 

For more information: 

  • Phone: 772-462-4772 
  • Toll-Free: 1-866-792-4772 

Para información en español: 

  • Teléfono: 772-462-4772 

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