Knox County Tuition-Free Pathway
A Union Commonwealth University education, tuition-free for Knox County students.
Union Commonwealth University is committed to making higher education accessible and affordable for our community. Through the Knox County Tuition-Free Pathway, eligible students can attend Union without paying tuition—allowing them to focus on their education and future without the burden of student loan debt.
The program will launch with the Class of 2026, providing tuition-free access for Knox County students enrolling at Union for the 2026-27 academic school year.
Who's Eligible?
- Graduates of Barbourville Independent, Knox Central, or Lynn Camp High School
- Homeschool students who reside in Knox County and complete a state-recognized high school equivalent (diploma or GED)
- First-time, full-time undergraduate students.
- Apply and be admitted to Union Commonwealth University.
- File the FAFSA each year (using Union’s school code 001988).
- Maintain good academic standing at Union.
What's Covered?
- Tuition: 100% covered (up to 8 semesters) + comprehensive fee
- Not covered: Room and board, student fees, books, or personal expenses.
- Other fees: Some majors may have additional course or lab fees. These are not covered under the tuition-free pathway.
Admissions Requirements
- High School Diploma
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
Application Deadline
- Priority Deadline: November 1
- Applications submitted after November 1 will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after I apply to Union?
The admissions team will review your application and your local admissions counselor will follow up with you directly.
Can I live on campus if I’m in the program?
Yes, students are welcome to live on campus; however, housing and meal costs are not included in the tuition-free pathway and would be the responsibility of the student and their family.
If you are interested in living on campus, please be sure to let your admissions counselor know.
Is the program renewable each semester/year at Union?
Yes! The pathway can be renewed for up to four years (8 semesters) as long as you remain a full-time student, submit the FAFSA each year, and maintain good academic standing.
What happens if I apply after the deadline?
Applications received after the deadline will be reviewed individually and considered as space and funding allow.
Local Graduates Thriving at Union
Meet current Union students who graduated from Barbourville Independent, Knox Central, or Lynn Camp High School and are making the most of their college experience at Union.
"I chose Union for the same sense of family, community, and unwavering support as Lynn Camp had always given me.”
-Kaylan Brown, Lynn Camp High School Class of 2018
"I chose Union because I love how small the campus is but that is has so much to offer. I like being close to my old high school and close to home. Even though I don’t live on this beautiful campus I am still involved in everything that happens. It’s amazing that I get to go and get a great education but still be close to home!"
-Raegan Howard, Barbourville High School Class of 2025
"Union offers an incredible opportunity for local students to receive a quality education while also experiencing college life, all without having to leave home. Union is truly a cornerstone of our community, and I’m proud to be a part of it."
-Regan Messer, Barbourville High School Class of 2024
"I chose Union Commonwealth University to show kids in Knox County that staying home for college can be a good thing!! Remaining local all while getting the college experience is the best of both worlds!
-Ava Ledford, Knox Central High School Class of 2024
