The Cuesta Promise gives all recent San Luis Obispo County high school graduates the opportunity to attend Cuesta College tuition-free for two years – including summer sessions.
Launched in 2015, the Charles and Leeta Dovica Family Trust generously funded the program to support students for one year. Since, the program has expanded to cover two years of fee-free college through continued community and donor investments and state funding through the California College Promise Grant and Assembly Bill 19. The Cuesta Promise has helped over 10,000 local students access higher education without the burden of tuition costs.
By removing financial barriers, the program ensures that higher education remains within reach for every eligible local graduate and reflects our community's strong commitment to educational equity and student success.
Key features of the Cuesta Promise:
- Tuition-Free: Covers two full years at Cuesta College, including summer sessions
- Locally Focused: Open to all recent graduates of San Luis Obispo County high schools
- Community-Supported: Initially funded by the Dovica Family Trust, now sustained through ongoing donor investments and state funding
Eligibility is based on a student's high school location, graduation year, and commitment to meeting enrollment and academic requirements. The program builds on research-backed strategies proven to improve college success, including early engagement, full-time enrollment, and access to academic support.