Free Tuition for qualifying Pell-eligible students

We’ve been making college possible at Shawnee State University since our beginning. Now, we’re taking it to a new level — providing free undergraduate tuition for qualifying incoming freshmen.

Shawnee State University was created to improve college access to students in our region. We have a long tradition of providing low tuition cost, open access, and support services aimed at helping students successfully earn their degrees.

Now, we continue that tradition with free tuition for incoming first-time students throughout the region who demonstrate financial need and are college-ready (3.0 GPA and 18 ACT).

Eligibility Requirements:

First-time undergraduate student entering Shawnee State University (includes College Credit Plus students who earned college credit while in high school)
Resident of Scioto, Lawrence, Adams, Pike, Jackson, Ross, Gallia, Brown, Highland, and Vinton Counties in Ohio; or Greenup, Boyd or Lewis Counties in Kentucky
Qualify for Federal Pell Grant (as determined by your FAFSA)
High School GPA of at least 3.0
ACT score of at least 18
Must enroll as a full-time student and maintain full-time status

How to Apply for free tuition:

Your application to attend Shawnee State University gives you automatic consideration for the free tuition program. If you meet the qualifications, free tuition will automatically be applied to your account.

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Making college possible.

About the Free-Tuition Program

Who qualifies for free tuition?

Qualifying students must be eligible to receive the federal Pell Grant and reside in Scioto, Lawrence, Adams, Pike, Jackson, Ross, Gallia, Brown, Highland or Vinton County in Ohio, or Greenup, Boyd or Lewis County in Kentucky.

Students must be entering college for the first time in Fall 2023 or later and have a high school grade point average of at least 3.0 and an ACT score of at least 18 (or SAT equivalent).

Entering students who earned college credit while in high school through the College Credit Plus program are considered first-time students and qualify.

If you have questions about eligibility, call an Admission Associate today at (740) 351-4778 or email admissions@shawnee.edu.

How do I apply for the free tuition program?

Apply Now

How do I check my eligibility if I’ve already applied to Shawnee State?

If you’ve already applied to Shawnee State and want your eligibility reviewed, complete this short form and an admission associate will contact you.

Check My Eligibility

FAQ

How does the program work?

If you meet all of the qualifications, your Pell Grant and any state grants and institutional scholarships will be applied to your SSU Tuition Advantage rate first. The remaining balance will be paid by Shawnee State through the free tuition program. Keep in mind this does not include course fees, program fees, books, or housing costs.

If I qualify for a merit-based scholarship in addition to my Pell Grant and free tuition, will I get a refund for any amount over the tuition cost?

Maybe. All federal and state need-based grants and institutional scholarships from Shawnee State will be applied to your undergraduate tuition only. Any student loans you receive or unrestricted scholarships from outside organizations will be applied to your student account. If there is a credit balance of unrestricted aid, those funds will be issued to you

Are current Shawnee State University undergraduate students eligible for the free tuition program?

No. The free tuition program is limited to qualifying first-time incoming freshmen. Current students — as well as those who don’t quality for the free tuition program — will continue to benefit from our low tuition cost and our Shawnee Advantage program that guarantees that tuition costs won't increase for four years.

I am a current Shawnee State University College Credit Plus (CCP) student, am I eligible?

Yes. Current Shawnee State University College Credit Plus students applying as first-time undergraduate degree students are eligible for Free Tuition when they enroll as an undergraduate student.

Are students enrolling in master’s or doctorate programs eligible for the free tuition program?

No. The free tuition program is limited to qualifying first-time incoming freshmen.

If I enroll part-time am I eligible for the free tuition program?

No. Part-time students are not eligible and full-time students who change their status to part-time may lose their eligibility.

How long does the free tuition program last? Is it renewable?

Yes. The free tuition program applies to the first eight (8) consecutive semesters (four years) a student is enrolled full-time, is in good academic standing and maintain Pell grant eligibility through the FAFSA. Free tuition will be applied to undergraduate tuition in pursuit of any associates degree or any bachelors degree program at Shawnee State University.

I am not a current high school student or recent high school graduate, can I be considered an incoming freshman?

Yes. Students of any age entering the university for the first time as a degree-seeking undergraduate student qualify. Those with high school GPAs older than five years will have alternative options for admission.

Does the program cover housing costs?

No. The Free Tuition program covers undergraduate tuition only. However, a new residential student access scholarship is available to Pell Grant students that provides the opportunity to experience Shawnee State’s top-ranked campus housing. Ask your admissions associate today about the Go Far Scholarship!

How do I apply for the free tuition program?

Apply Now