Donnelly College will launch the Donnelly Promise in fall 2026, a tuition guarantee that allows eligible Kansas and Missouri residents to earn a degree at no cost.
With college affordability a national concern, Donnelly is covering the cost of tuition and fees for eligible students, removing a major barrier to higher education. The initiative is designed to expand access for students across the Kansas City metro and support workforce development, family stability and long-term economic opportunity in the region.
Donnelly College, which has served the community for more than 75 years, is expanding its longstanding focus on affordability and access through the program.
Who qualifies
The Donnelly Promise is available to new students pursuing a traditional associate degree and to new transfer students with an associate degree who are seeking a bachelor’s degree.
Students must:
- Be residents of Kansas or Missouri
- Be eligible for the federal Pell Grant through the FAFSA
- Enroll in fall 2026 or spring 2027
- Meet Donnelly College admission requirements
- A minimum high school GPA is not required.
What it covers
The program guarantees that tuition and fees are fully covered after federal and state grants are applied. Total financial aid cannot exceed the actual cost of tuition and fees.
The benefit is available for up to six semesters of full-time enrollment.
Student requirements
- To maintain eligibility, students must:
- Enroll full time, defined as at least 12 credit hours in fall and spring semesters
- Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA
- Complete the FAFSA each year to confirm continued Pell eligibility
- How to apply and learn more
Students can begin by:
- Completing the Donnelly College application
- Submitting transcripts
- Filing the FAFSA using school code 001914
- Submitting ACT scores or taking the ACCUPLACER placement test at no cost on campus
More information about the Donnelly Promise, including full eligibility details and next steps, is available through Donnelly College admissions.