On Feb. 27, 2026, Central Ohio Technical College announced an expansion of its Knox County Promise program to offer free college tuition to more residents of Knox County.
The change raises the maximum eligible household income from $60,000 to $100,000 and will take effect beginning with the summer semester starting May 18. The program is open to current and new students, with a May 6 application deadline for new enrollees.
The Knox County Promise covers tuition—comprised of instructional and general fees—for eligible students through institutional, federal, state aid, and private scholarships. Books, course fees, and living expenses are not included but may be covered by additional financial aid. Students must live in Knox County for at least one year, have an annual household income of $100,000 or less as reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), enroll in at least one credit hour in an aid-eligible certificate or degree program at any COTC campus or online, and maintain satisfactory academic progress with a minimum 2.0 GPA.
The expansion is supported by partnerships with the Knox County Foundation and funding agreements involving local organizations such as the Ariel Foundation. Jeffrey Scott, executive director of the Knox County Foundation said: "We’re proud of our long-standing partnership with COTC and excited about the expansion of the Knox County Promise program. What started as a limited pilot program is now secured for years to come. We’re thrilled about extending opportunities to even more Knox County residents."
COTC President John M. Berry said: "Strengthening this program will strengthen the higher education prospects throughout our community. So many individuals who never thought they could pursue a certificate or degree now have that pathway in front of them."
Similar changes are being made to Coshocton and Licking county programs. More information can be found at Central Ohio Technical College's website.
