University Of Cincinnati Establishes Grant To Provide Free Tuition To Students Whose Families Make Less Than $75K

The University of Cincinnati has established a grant to ensure more students have access to quality education.

Bearcat Affordability Grant

According to a news release, the school has introduced a new pathway for students to obtain a tuition-free education. This will be made possible through the Bearcat Affordability Grant, which will go into effect in the fall of 2026. Its purpose is to ensure Ohio students can find opportunity and contribute to building a stronger workforce, particularly in the southwestern region.

Eligibility for the grant is income-based. Students from families earning less than $75,000 annually can qualify, with the grant covering the remaining tuition costs for Ohio students after Pell Grants and the Ohio College Opportunity Grant are applied.

The opportunity is open to incoming first-year students, and the grant can be used across the University of Cincinnati’s three campuses, notes the press release.

“This grant program will be transformational for students, families, and for this region,” Jack Miner, vice provost for enrollment management, said in the news release. “Despite their dreams and years of hard work, college is just out of reach for so many students and families. This grant will make dreams a reality for literally thousands of students.”

University of Cincinnati President Neville Pinto commented:

“The Bearcat Affordability Grant strengthens families and communities across Ohio, from our largest cities to our rural regions. By removing financial barriers and expanding access to a UC education, we are preparing many more students to enter high-demand fields and contribute to a workforce that keeps our state competitive. This is an investment not only in individual students, but in Ohio’s long-term prosperity and the employers who depend on a strong, steady talent pipeline.”

More and more schools are making it easier for students to earn degrees in a variety of fields. This includes Emory University and Johns Hopkins University, which both announced they will provide free education to students from families earning up to $200,000, as AFROTECH™ previously reported.