Promise 2 Finish Program FAQs

What is the Promise 2 Finish program? 

Promise 2 Finish is a program for returning adult students 23 years old or older who have been out of college for at least one year (3 semesters) and have earned at least 9 college credits with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. It will fill the gap between financial aid received and the cost of Gateway tuition and fees (students are responsible for the cost of books and course materials not covered by financial aid). The Promise scholarship program is made possible through the generous support of the Gateway Foundation and its donors.

It is a multi-year commitment by the college to ensure that all tuition and fees are covered for eligible participants up to $10,500. This comprehensive program places unique requirements on students to be enrolled, and graduate from, their chosen program.

Promise 2 Finish requires participation in a kickoff meeting the Gateway to Success course, one-on-one mentoring and the development of an academic plan.

Does Promise 2 Finish include the cost of books or living expenses?

No, the Gateway Promise 2 Finish program is limited to program tuition and fee costs (not covered by financial aid) for full-time enrollment for up to eight semesters. Please see your program’s web page for more specific details about the cost of tuition, fees and books. Courses must be part of the declared program curriculum. The Promise 2 Finish scholarship for tuition and fee coverage is a maximum of $10,500.

What about financial aid?

The Gateway Promise 2 Finish program requires students to apply for and utilize federal and state grants. Promise 2 Finish students must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually and be a U.S. citizen, a national or permanent resident of the United States.

Promise 2 Finish support is calculated after federal and state grants are applied, but before loans, federal work study and non-tuition scholarships.

Are all Gateway programs eligible for the Gateway Promise 2 Finish program?

While most Gateway programs are eligible, some programs are not eligible. Please review eligible programs here.

What if I don’t qualify for the Gateway Promise 2 Finish program?

Gateway welcomes all students to attend the college. With tuition half that of state universities and one-third that of private colleges, Gateway is a high value education option. Look into financial aid, our tuition payment plans and other scholarships through the Gateway Foundation for continuing students.

Will I receive credit for my prior college coursework?

As part of the Admission process you will provide official college transcripts from any prior colleges you have attended. Once you’ve been admitted to Gateway, the college will evaluate transfer credit from regionally accredited institutions. Find out more about transfer credit.

What is Credit for Prior Learning?

Credit for Prior Learning (CFPL) can award you college credit for learning you obtained outside of college through verified assessments by Gateway faculty and content experts. Examples of CFPL could include work or military experience, national exams and advanced placement courses. Learn more about CFPL.

What is the Gateway to Success course?

Gateway to Success is a one-credit, mandatory course for all new Gateway students. It serves as an introduction to all things Gateway, such as student support services, resources, technology, academic success strategies and college expectations. Gateway to Success sets you on the path to graduation by providing a solid foundation for your education, equipping you with the background knowledge you need to achieve big.

I’m not ready to apply yet. When can I apply next year?

Promise 2 Finish applications are accepted for Fall and Spring Semester annually. Check back for upcoming application deadlines. 

Please direct any further questions to Gateway Promise Coordinator Sabrina Morgan at 262-564-2362 or morgans@gtc.edu.