College Promise Programs in California: Background and Landscape

Authors

• Mary Rauner, Consultant

Issue Date

November 2026

Abstract

This is a brief explanatory note about the landscape of California College Promise Programs. It is meant to complement the Promise Programs Database and clarify the key differences between different types of tuition-free college at California community colleges.

Sponsorship

The Kresge Foundation

Subject Areas

EDUCATION; Postsecondary education; Postsecondary access; Promise scholarships