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About the Program
How to Get Started
Our Sponsors
What is the Promise Program?
your ticket to a brighter future!
The Promise Program is a scholarship funded by Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia that allows students who live in Washington County, Virginia to attend Virginia Highlands Community College for free. This opportunity is specifically available for those who will graduate from high school in 2025 through 2037 and covers tuition, fees and even up to $500 per semester for books, making college and workforce training more accessible than ever.
A Promise of what?
A Pathway to your Future
We’re promising a stress-free path to success! With full coverage of your education costs for up to five consecutive semesters at Virginia Highlands Community College, you can focus on your dreams—whether it’s earning a degree, transferring to a four-year college, or diving into hands-on workforce training. No need to worry about student loans, where to start, or how to get there.
How do I Get Started?
Eligibility Made Simple
It’s easy to qualify for the Promise Program! Here’s what you need:
- Residency: Live in Washington County, VA, for at least twelve months prior to graduation.
- Citizenship: Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Apply: Complete the FAFSA and VHCC scholarship applications.
- Enroll: Choose a degree, transfer program or workforce training.
- GPA: Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA once you’re in college.
- Community Service: Perform 8 hours of volunteer work each year.
Once you’re in, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your education is fully supported!
What do I Have to Do?
You’ve Already Begun!
Getting started is simple! As a student who lives in Washington County, VA, you’ve already taken the first step. Now, just make sure you meet the residency and citizenship requirements, apply for financial aid and VHCC scholarships, and let the Promise Program handle the rest as a “last dollar” scholarship.
Talk to your school counselor or a Virginia Highlands Community College representative.
Make a promise
Visit VHCC to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
your ticket to a brighter future!
Who is eligible for the Promise Program?
Students who live in Washington County, Virginia at least 12 months prior to their high school graduation.
Does the funding cover my tuition at any college or university?
No, the funding is specifically tied to students who enroll at Virginia Highlands Community College.
Is it only for students who want to earn an associate degree or transfer to a 4-year college?
No. While the program will cover tuition, fees and books for students who want to pursue a 2-year degree or transfer to a 4-year institution, this program also covers students who enroll in workforce training programs.
When do I have to enroll to be part of the program?
High School graduates who live in Washington County, Virginia at least 12 months prior to graduation must enroll at VHCC immediately following their spring HS graduation (either summer semester or fall semester).
How many semesters are covered?
The Promise Program will cover a total of 5 consecutive semesters.
How many classes do I need to take?
The minimum credit hour requirement is 6 hours.
There is no maximum credit hour requirement.
Do I have to have a certain GPA in high school to be eligible?
There is no high school GPA requirement for entry into the Promise Program.
Why do I have to complete the FAFSA and VHCC scholarship application?
The Promise Program funding is last dollar funding after all Federal & State aid have been applied and after any additional scholarship funds have been applied. In order to be eligible for Federal or State funding, students must complete the FAFSA and add the VHCC scholarship application.
What if I don’t want to complete the FAFSA or VHCC scholarship application. Can I still enroll in the Promise Program?
No. Students must complete the FAFSA and the VHCC scholarship application to be eligible to benefit from the Promise Program.
Why is there an 8-hour community service requirement?
Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia & Virginia Highlands Community College believe it’s important to become involved and give back to our community through volunteering.
Who do I contact to learn more about the Promise Program?
You can visit PromiseProgram.org or talk to one of the VHCC navigators at your local school.
How long will the Promise Program be available?
The Promise Program is a 13-year commitment by the Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia and Virginia Highlands Community College. It covers all students that live in Washington County, Virginia who will graduate in 2025 through 2037.
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