The Mesa College Promise program is facing its application deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year this Monday, July 15. If you're a 2024 high school graduate from Mesa or a resident aged 24 or above who's looking to hit the books at Mesa Community College (MCC), this is your cue to act fast.
Qualifying for the Mesa College Promise means demonstrating financial need, which applicants can show by completing the FAFSA and providing necessary documentation. Aside from financial need, candidates must have a diploma or GED in hand and shouldn’t have previously earned a college degree. With enrolling at MCC in at least 6 credits as a degree or certificate-seeking student, you're on track to join in an eligible program of study. Mayor John Giles saw through the program's launch in 2021, which invites newly eligible adults this year. Details of the program are available online.
Since the inaugural batch of students in Fall 2021, the Mesa College Promise program has been keeping promises indeed. The first cohort consisted of 88 students, leaping to 201 enrollees by 2022, and the program continued its momentum with around 200 participants in Fall 2023. It's a significant push towards reaching the Achieve60 aim for 60% of Arizona adults to have a workforce credential or college degree by 2030—widely supported by 86% of residents according to statewide surveys.
The program's scholars are counting their blessings and making most of the financial aid that's made possible by both individuals and organizations. Not just tuition fees, the program offers students support services to navigate their academic journey. Aside from the community, large corporations like Google contribute too; they've pitched in $100,000 to help broaden the program's reach, to include older adults as reported by the City of Mesa's news release. Since inception, more than $760,000 in private funds complement government support, reinforcing Mesa College Promise's commitment to higher education access.
