The New Hampshire Promise
Exceptional education made more affordable.
With the New Hampshire Promise, a high-quality public university education is now within reach for more New Hampshire students. Beginning in fall 2027, incoming first-year students who are New Hampshire residents and have a total family income of up to $100,000 a year can pay no tuition at any USNH institution, including UNH Durham, UNH Manchester, UNH College of Professional Studies Online, Keene State College, and Plymouth State University. It’s an opportunity to get an exceptional education by removing a major financial barrier and giving more students the opportunity to pursue their goals and build their future right here in New Hampshire.
Transfer students who earn an associate degree from the Community College System of New Hampshire are also eligible for the New Hampshire Promise.
Eligibility Requirements
You may qualify for the New Hampshire Promise if you:
- Are a New Hampshire resident (qualified for in-state residency)
- Have been admitted to a USNH institution (UNH Durham, UNH Manchester, UNH College of Professional Studies Online, Keene State College, or Plymouth State University)
- Have a total family income of up to $100,000 with typical assets
- Submit the (FAFSA)
- Enroll full-time as a first-time undergraduate student or an eligible transfer student who has graduated with an associate degree from the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH)
- Have a cumulative high school GPA of 2.7 or above for new first-year students
How it works
There’s no separate application for the New Hampshire Promise.
1. Apply to a USNH institution: Submit your application for admission as an incoming first-year student or eligible transfer student.
2. Complete the FAFSA: Submit the (FAFSA) as part of the financial aid process.
3. Get your financial aid offer: If you’re admitted and meet the eligibility requirements, you’ll automatically be considered for the New Hampshire Promise.
New Hampshire Promise FAQs
What is the New Hampshire Promise?
The New Hampshire Promise is the University System of New Hampshire’s commitment to making higher education affordable for New Hampshire families. Under the program, New Hampshire residents who are admitted as full-time, first-year students or transfers who have graduated with an associate degree from a New Hampshire community college, who have a total family income of up to $100,000, and who qualify to attend a USNH institution can have their tuition costs covered by federal, state, and institutional grant aid.
How do I qualify for the New Hampshire Promise?
Students must meet the eligibility requirements listed above, including New Hampshire residency, admission to a USNH institution, a total family income of up to $100,000 with typical assets, demonstrated financial need based on the FAFSA, full-time enrollment, and pursuit of a first bachelor’s degree. Eligible transfer students must have graduated from the Community College System of New Hampshire.
How do I apply for the New Hampshire Promise?
There is no separate application. Admitted students who submit the FAFSA will automatically be considered for the New Hampshire Promise.
I am a current USNH student. Can I get the New Hampshire Promise?
The New Hampshire Promise is open to eligible first-year and transfer students enrolling in fall 2027. Current Granite Guarantee students will retain their Granite Guarantee eligibility for the duration of their undergraduate careers.
Can I qualify if my family makes $100,000 or more?
The New Hampshire Promise is for eligible students from families with a total family income of up to $100,000 with typical assets. Other forms of financial aid, including merit aid, may still be available.
Are the awards renewable?
Yes. Awards will be based on an annual review of a student’s FAFSA, academic status, and full-time student status.
Will I still have student loans?
The New Hampshire Promise covers standard tuition for eligible students. Students may still seek loans or other financial aid to help pay for other tuition expenses such as fees, books, housing, and meals.
I am a Granite Guarantee student. Do I have to apply for the New Hampshire Promise?
No. Granite Guarantee students will retain their current awards for the duration of their undergraduate careers.
What if my family income changes while I am an undergraduate? Can I qualify for the New Hampshire Promise later?
No. Only incoming first-year and transfer students may enroll in New Hampshire Promise.
I am a UNH Manchester student. Can I qualify for the New Hampshire Promise?
Yes, you can.
I am a UNH College of Professional Studies Online student. Can I qualify for the New Hampshire Promise?
Yes. You must be registered as a full-time, first-time undergraduate student or be an eligible transfer student who has graduated with an associate degree from the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH). Students may take up to 16 credits per semester. The New Hampshire Promise does not apply to January or summer.
Can I use the New Hampshire Promise to pay for summer or January courses?
No. The New Hampshire promise is only applicable for normal course loads in fall and spring semesters.
Will I lose New Hampshire Promise if I transfer between USNH institutions?
No, undergraduate students who continue to demonstrate need and maintain their academic standing can keep New Hampshire Promise if they transfer to another USNH institution (Â鶹app, Plymouth State University, and Keene State College).