College Promise programs provide support for students to attend, persevere in, and complete college based on where they live or where they attend school. It has grown from its first program 15 years ago to more than 320 programs in 47 states.

College Promise is not just one specific program — it serves as an umbrella that covers a wide range of programs led by colleges, universities, foundations, and local and state governments. Some only provide financial support, while others offer comprehensive financial, academic, and social support. Despite this variation, they all share a common goal — helping students succeed in higher education and beyond.

This policy brief, produced by WestEd’s California College Promise Project:

  • Outlines the legislative landscape that helped fuel the growth of College Promise in California
  • Reflects on issues that have arisen as the state’s College Promise legislation and reforms have been implemented
  • Offers recommendations for maximizing the equity and impact of the California model of College Promise