ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – Students in the Rockford Promise scholarship program will have more opportunities to pursue higher education through a new partnership with Rockford University.
With the Rockford Promise-Rockford University Scholarship Program, more eligible high school graduates will be able to attend Rockford University tuition-free. The program begins in the 2025 academic year.
“Last year, we had 90+ applicants to Rockford University and due to funding we were able to fill four of those spots. So this year, with this expansion, we’re very excited to welcome increased numbers of students to Rockford University,” said Kaylene Groh, Executive Director for Rockford Promise.
“We’re thrilled,” said Patricia Lynott, President of Rockford University. “The opportunity to serve these incredible students that are going to be coming from not just the public high schools, but private high schools, this is a real opportunity for us.”
Funding for the program expansion comes from casino tax revenue, with Rockford University covering any additional costs. The City of Rockford commits $500,000 every year to help cover tuition for eligible students.
To qualify students must:
Eligible students should complete their FAFSA and applications for Rockford University by February 1 of their graduating year. Students must apply through the Rockford Promise website application.
Once students have applied, Rockford Promise and Rockford University will work together to confirm student eligibility and coordinate the enrollment process. The City of Rockford will confirm the address requirements.
Rockford Promise also has partnerships with Rock Valley College, Saint Anthony College of Nursing and Northern Illinois University.
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