University of Illinois plans free tuition for students who can't afford it

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The University of Illinois plans to give free tuition to students who can't afford to go to college.

The program is called Illinois Commitment.

A student qualifies for free tuition if they are an Illinois resident, their family income is $61,000 or less (and has less than $50,000 in family assets), are admitted as a freshman (or transfer), and are under 24 years of age.

"Through Illinois Commitment, eligible students will receive a financial aid package that provides scholarship and grant funding to cover the full cost of tuition and campus fees," the university's website states. "The University will cover the cost of tuition and campus fees not covered by other federal, state, institutional and private awards included Federal Pell Grant, State of Illinois MAP Program (MAP) and other awards."

The program covers the full cost of tuition in all programs. It does not cover room and board, specific course fees, books, study abroad or summer / winter classes.

The program will be open beginning with the class of 2019.

For more information on the program, CLICK HERE.