College of the Canyons will accept an additional 500 students to its First-Year Promise program for the fall 2018 semester, an expansion made possible by funding from a new state program called California College Promise.

The newly created First-Year Promise Plus program will accept students on a first-come, first-served basis starting Monday, July 16. The application period will close Monday, July 30, or when the 500-student limit is reached.

“This is an incredible opportunity that increases access to higher education and changes lives,” Chancellor Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook said. “I urge all potential first-time students to give this serious consideration – and to apply as soon as possible.”

To be eligible for First-Year Promise Plus, students must enroll in at least 12 units of classes in both fall 2018 and spring 2019. The program will cover the cost for up to 15 units per semester, potentially saving students $1,380 in tuition.

Students must maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average. The program gives students access to coaches, mentors, counselors and college personnel dedicated to their academic success, as well as tutoring in a variety of subjects. The combination of services is designed to propel students forward to achieve their academic goals.

Students who have questions or need help with the application process are encouraged to attend the First-Year Promise Plus Information Day on Wednesday, July 18. The event is scheduled 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Canyons Hall Welcome Center. Support is also available at fyp@canyons.edu​ or 661-362-5891.

Signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown last year and funded for the first time in the 2018/19 state budget, California College Promise lays the groundwork for the state’s community colleges to increase access and student success by increasing the number of degrees and certificates awarded, and helping students secure gainful employment.

California College Promise allocated $898,434 to College of the Canyons. The amount is the 10th highest among California’s 114 community colleges. The funding is ongoing, although the total amount will likely change each academic year.

The online application, additional information and eligibility requirements are available at www.canyons.edu/promise​.​