Is community college actually free in some states?

I've been hearing a lot about free community college in the news, but I’m a little confused about the specifics. Does anyone here know if community college is genuinely free in some places, and what the requirements are to qualify for free tuition? Are there certain states where this is offered?

Indeed, several states offer programs that make community college tuition-free for qualifying students. These programs, often referred to as 'Promise Programs,' vary from state to state and may have specific eligibility criteria such as residency requirements, income thresholds, and maintaining a certain GPA. For example, the Tennessee Promise provides two years of tuition-free attendance at a community or technical college in Tennessee, provided students meet the program's service requirements and academic standards. States like New York, Oregon, and Maryland have similar programs, each with its own set of rules and qualifications.

Keep in mind that 'free' typically covers tuition costs and sometimes mandatory fees, but it may not cover additional expenses like books, supplies, and living costs. It's also common for these programs to be 'last-dollar' scholarships, which means they cover whatever tuition and fees are left after other forms of financial aid, like federal grants, have been applied. Always check the specifics for the state you're interested in to ensure you meet all the criteria.