Free College. Unlimited Possibilities.
Free College is transforming lives across San Mateo County. Since its launch under Senate Bill 893 (Becker; 2022) as a five-year pilot program, more than 33,500 students have enrolled at Cañada College, College of San Mateo, and Skyline College without paying tuition or fees. Enrollment has grown 24 percent since 2022, with especially strong gains in historically underrepresented areas such as East Palo Alto and Half Moon Bay.
Your Free College Journey Starts Here—Apply Now!
Measurable Impact. Real Results.
Data-driven proof that Free College works for students and communities
See how Free College changes lives
Real stories from students who are transforming their futures
Michael
Free College Allowed Me to Focus on My Classes
College of San Mateo
Nisha
Free College Removed Financial Stress
Cañada College
Foreign
Free College Saved My Life
Skyline College
Ciara
Free College Let Me Learn About My Career Path
College of San Mateo
Cena
Free College Let Me Pursue My Passion
Cañada College
Audrey
Free College Made it Possible to Study Abroad
Skyline College
Our Investment in Student Success
Free College is made possible through the San Mateo County Community College District's ongoing investment in student success. Each year, the District dedicates $12 million in local funds to remove financial barriers and make higher education accessible to San Mateo County residents. This strategic investment fuels opportunity, supports economic mobility, and keeps local talent learning, growing, and thriving close to home.
Building on this success, the District is now working with state and local leaders to make Free College a opportunity for future generations—ensuring that access to higher education remains a cornerstone of equity and economic strength in San Mateo County.
Learn more about Free College and hear a special announcement from State Senator Josh Becker in this December 9, 2025, virtual town hall recording.
Join the Free College Movement
Add your name to show support for Free College. We'll share aggregate supporter lists with legislators to keep momentum strong.
Submissions are used for advocacy updates and summary reports. We respect your privacy and never sell your information.