Students graduating from Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) high schools this spring can attend West Los Angeles College tuition free in 2017-2018, regardless of their income. Applications are due May 1. An information session on how to apply, requirements and other benefits of the program will be held at West on Tuesday, April 18 at 6:00pm.
This opportunity is made possible through the LA College Promise program, a partnership with the City of Los Angeles, LAUSD, and the nine colleges that comprise the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD). LA College Promise “affords every student, irrespective of zip code or station in life, an opportunity to succeed and demonstrates the vital connection between an educated citizenry and a strong, functioning economy,” said Francisco Rodriguez, Ph.D., LACCD’s Chancellor.
In addition to free tuition for the first year, Promise students can receive the additional benefits of: participating in a Summer Bridge program to ease the transition from high school to college; assistance completing financial aid forms; priority registration for classes (move to the front of the line); success coaching and tutoring; and a structured class schedule.
To qualify to participate in LA College Promise at West, the applicant must:
- be a 2017 graduate of an LAUSD regular or charter school
- complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and/or a Fee Wavier application
- enroll at West full time (12 to 15 units) for 2017-2018
Many students will qualify for fee waivers and grants in their second year at West as well. For those who do not, West still offers affordable access to higher education at a cost of just $46 per unit for California Residents.
West Los Angeles College an ACCJC-Accredited California Community College, is located in Culver City near the Westfield mall. The college has panoramic views of West Los Angeles and a small private school feel.
The college offers Associate degrees, certificates, university transfer and career education for day, evening and online students. West also offers a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene. More information is available at WLAC.edu.
