PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Temple University is offering free tuition this fall for first-time students from Philadelphia whose family income is $65,000 or less.
It’s part of the university’s new program, Temple Promise, that will cover the remaining tuition and eligible fees after all other aid is applied to a student’s account.
Eligible freshmen applying for the fall 2024 semester would receive the tuition break for their entire four-year college career.
Applicants are required to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form by April 1.
“Lack of finances is a major barrier to attending college," said Temple President Richard Englert. “We continue to look for ways to address affordability and accessibility.”
Jose Aviles, Temple's vice provost for enrollment management, says the program is designed to “ease the educational cost for families by closing the remaining gap after all other financial aid awards are applied.”
In-state tuition at Temple is currently $18,900. The university would cover about $6,800 per applicant, Aviles estimated.
Temple Provost Gregory Mandel said most tuition-aid programs are state-funded, but Temple is assuming the cost of Temple Promise.
“This is something that we are self-funding because of our commitment to our mission, because of our commitment to our students,” Mandel said.
Enrollment has dipped in recent years but Mandel said the university believes Temple Promise will be a factor in sparking a rebound.
The university estimates several hundred students will take advantage of the program.
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