CLEVELAND — Cleveland State University is promising free tuition to qualifying Ohio students starting in fall 2027, under a new program called the Cleveland State Commitment that the university’s Board of Trustees approved this week.
Beginning in fall 2027, incoming first-year students who graduate from high school in spring 2027 with a 3.0 grade point average or higher, and whose families have an adjusted gross income of $125,000 or less, will pay no tuition for up to eight consecutive semesters. Cleveland State will cover whatever tuition remains after federal and state grants and scholarships are applied, with eligibility determined through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
University leaders say about 73 percent of Ohio households earn $125,000 or less, and the program is aimed squarely at middle-income families — particularly those earning between $75,000 and $125,000 — who often receive little federal or state grant aid but still find college costs out of reach. The income threshold is higher than comparable programs at other Ohio public universities, including the University of Akron’s tuition program, which is capped at $85,000.
Students must maintain a 2.0 grade point average, stay enrolled full time, and continue meeting the income limit to keep the aid. Room and board, meals, books, transportation, and program fees are not covered, and current and transfer students are not eligible — only new incoming freshmen for fall 2027.
