Through Jeroslyn JoVonn
January 12, 2026
The University of Cincinnati has a new scholarship program that makes tuition free for students in families making less than $75,000.
The University of Cincinnati has launched a new grant program to make college more affordable for students from households earning less than $75,000.
The University of Cincinnati took place on January 7 announced the Bearcat Affordability Grant, which covers remaining tuition costs for students eligible for the Ohio Pell Grant. Beginning in fall 2026, students from families earning less than $75,000 annually will be able to access the grant, creating a path to tuition-free college.
“This grant program will be transformative for students, families and for this region,” said Jack Miner, vice provost for enrollment management. “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 come true for literally thousands of students.”
The Bearcat Affordability Grant will be available to first-year students at all three UC campuses beginning fall 2026. It covers any remaining tuition costs after Pell Grants and Ohio College Opportunity Grants have been applied.
The university views the grant program as a way to expand opportunities for students while supporting workforce development in southwest Ohio.
“The Bearcat Affordability Grant strengthens families and communities across Ohio, from our largest cities to our rural areas,” said UC President Neville Pinto. “By removing financial barriers and expanding access to a UC education, we are preparing many more students for high-demand fields and contributing 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, stable talent pipeline.”
The announcement comes as UC reports a surge in applications, with more than 35,000 applications for fall 2026, an increase of nearly 15% over last year. Miner noted that the Bearcat Affordability Grant, in addition to UC’s CPS Strong initiative, which supports readiness, access and success for Cincinnati Public Schools graduates, will help students pursue career-oriented education. In addition to the scholarship, the Marian Spencer Scholarship for CPS students covers tuition, books, room and board, and a study abroad trip.
RELATED CONTENT: Emmett Till Center Buys Barn Where Lynching Took Place for $1.5 Million
#University #Cincinnati #Launches #Grant #Offering #Free #Tuition #Students #Families #Earning