All high school graduates in the Renton School District are eligible to attend Renton Technical College (RTC) for free for the next two years, the district reminded upcoming grads on March 7.

The Renton Promise grant program began in 2023, providing up to full tuition and fees at RTC for graduating seniors, “regardless of grade point average (GPA), income, ability, or country of birth.” In its first year, the incoming RTC class of Renton graduates totaled 123 students, which doubled the previous usual intake.

Any verified graduates of Hazen, Lindbergh, Renton, or Talley high schools are eligible as long as they enroll in RTC fall, winter, or spring quarters of the academic year and, once they are enrolled, meet the RTC Academic Standards of Progress policy.

In order to apply for the grant, future RTC students must complete the Renton Promise Inquiry Form, apply for admission to RTC, complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form or the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA), register for classes, then make a drop-in appointment with the RTC Virtual Welcome Center.

“For some students, this is more of a stepping stone for them,” said Lidiya Gebre, Lindbergh alumna and Renton Promise Specialist in a 2024. “It’s a starting point where they can build their confidence and ensure that they know what they want to achieve.”

To connect with a program specialist, email rentonpromise@rtc.edu or call 435-235-2262. For more information, visit rtc.edu/renton-promise.