Modesto Junior College Promise

Modesto Junior College is participating in the California College Promise/AB 19 - Offering Free Tuition for two years. 

Who's eligible?

All first-time college students (including students who earned college units while still in high school) and returning community college students who meet the following criteria:

• Filed a FAFSA or CADAA every year
• Submit all documents on your " Document Request Notice" and your financial aid file be complete
• Must be a California resident or AB540 resident
• Enrolled in 12 or more units each semester at Modesto Junior College, including summer.  Reduced unit requirement available for students meeting specific criteria under AB2
• Not eligible for California College Promise Grant (formerly Board of Governors Fee Waiver)
• Continuing students have not earned a post secondary degree (AA/AS, BA/BS, or MA/MS)
• Returning students have not earned a certificate or degree (AA/AS, BA/BS, or MA/MS) 

How can I apply?

The Student Financial Services Office will award students who meet eligibility criteria automatically.  If you were not awarded, and believe you are eligible for the award, submit the Modesto Junior College Promise Request Form. Make sure to attached supporting documentation if you are eligible under AB2. 

Modesto Junior College Eligibility Deadlines

2024-2025: June 15, 2025

Is this program free for all students?  

Yes, this program is not awarded on the basis of financial need.

What is covered?

Type of Cost                                    Does Promise Cover? 

Enrollment fees ($46 per unit)        Yes

Health Fee                                       No

Rep Fee                                            No

Center Fee                                        No

Material Fees                                    No

Frequently Asked Questions

How will tuition be paid?

Students' fees will be waived once their eligibility is determined.  No direct cash disbursements will occur.

Reimbursement: If you paid your fees prior to receiving an award, you will receive a refund within 3-4 weeks after receiving an award. Once your account has been credited, you may request a refund via Etrieve Central. Remember to check your student Email for your MJC Promise award.

Can students get their tuition waived if they take more than 12 units?

Yes

What is full-time equivalent for Accommodations and Support Center (ASC) students?

AB 2, provides specific authorization to colleges to allow students in the Accommodations and Support Center (ASC) programs to be considered a full-time student if enrolled in fewer than 12 units. An ASC student enrolled in fewer than 12 units may be deemed “full-time” by submitting a certified letter from an ASC counselor, who is qualified to make such designations. Students will need to submit a copy of their Notification of Authorized Services Form and the Modesto Junior College Promise Request form to the Student Financial Services office.

How long is this program good for?

The Modesto Junior College Promise is valid for two years. Students who qualified for the first year may qualify for a second year, as long as students meet the eligibility requirements for both years.

How are mid-year high school graduates, who begin college enrollment in the Spring handled, with regards to free tuition?

The student may receive Modesto Junior College fee waivers only during two award years. Therefore, the student could attend for Spring of the first award year, and then only for Summer, Fall and Spring of the second award year.

Can a student receive the Modesto Junior College Promise if they are waitlisted for some or all courses?

No, students need to be actively enrolled in 12 or more units each semester. Waitlisted courses are not considered actively enrolled. We encourage students to meet with a counselor to identify open courses to add, or pay your balance to avoid being dropped for nonpayment.

Can students earn a degree mid-year and still be eligible for this grant?

No, once the degree has been issued/awarded the student will no longer be eligible for the grant. For example, if a student earns their degree at the end of the fall term, student will not be eligible for Spring or any future term.