Free Tuition Programs

These programs require the completion of a financial aid application and don’t require anything to be paid back. To see if you qualify, submit your financial aid application right away!

8100+ DVC students received free tuition* in 2021-22! 

California College Promise Grant 

  • Free tuition. 
  • Awarded based on financial need. 
  • Full or part-time enrollment. 

The California College Promise Grant waives per unit enrollment fees. Student must be a CA resident or qualify for a in-state residency exemption.

Full Time Free Tuition Award 

  • Free tuition. 
  • Up to two years eligibility.***
  • Full-time enrollment.

For students who do not meet the requirements for the California College Promise Grant and enroll in a minimum of 12 units**. Student must be a CA resident or qualify for a in-state residency exemption.

CalVet Fee Waiver

  • Free tuition.
  • Awarded to eligible veteran dependents.

If you believe you qualify for the CalVet Fee Waiver, contact your county veterans services office to obtain an eligibility award code letter and submit to our financial aid office for processing via the secure Financial Aid Document Uploader. The letter can also be submitted directly to Zuhal Rahmani, financial aid liaison to student veterans, and their spouses and dependents.

DVC will not share personal financial aid information with any federal agencies or authorities. 

* California College Promise Grant, Full Time Free Tuition Award & CalVet programs 

**9 units for approved DSS students 

***Fall and spring semesters only.  Summer term excluded.