Milwaukee City Wire

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) will continue the Milwaukee Tuition Promise for incoming students in Fall 2025. The initiative ensures that eligible students can cover the full cost of tuition for up to four years.

“UWM understands how critical it is for all students to have access to a life-changing college degree, especially students and families with challenging economic circumstances,” UWM Chancellor Mark Mone stated. “We are proud to make the Milwaukee Tuition Promise available again so that more students can achieve their educational dreams. This investment in our students will pay dividends in their lives and in the broader Milwaukee community.”

The program targets students from families earning less than $62,000 annually or independent students earning less than $31,000 per year. It provides "last dollar" financial aid after federal and state grants, covering tuition for fall and spring semesters. The initiative could support over 1,000 students for four years at UWM. Funding will come from a mix of operating budget and gift funds, with ongoing efforts to secure additional philanthropic and other funding sources.

“The Milwaukee Tuition Promise can be the deciding factor in someone attending or not attending college, and that’s why it’s so important,” said Kay Eilers, UWM associate vice chancellor for enrollment management. “One of UWM’s missions is making higher education accessible to all, and continuing this program means more opportunities for Wisconsin students.”

Eligibility requirements include full-time attendance, Wisconsin residency, first-time bachelor’s or associate degree-seeking status (including first-time transfers), completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), among other criteria.

Starting in August, rising high school seniors across Wisconsin will apply for college admission for Fall 2025. Many prospective students are concerned about the cost of tuition and fees.

The program aims to increase the number of Wisconsin residents graduating with bachelor’s degrees—particularly first-generation students and those from low- to moderate-income households—thereby improving lives and addressing workforce needs.

UWM graduates over 5,000 students annually; more than 80% remain in Wisconsin to join the workforce and raise families. Graduates enter high-demand fields such as education, healthcare, STEM, and business with practical experience gained during their studies.

For detailed information on coverage and eligibility requirements of the Milwaukee Tuition Promise program, visit its webpage.