Union Commonwealth University has officially announced a bold new initiative that will make college more accessible for local students. Beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year, all graduating seniors from Knox County—including Knox Central High School, Lynn Camp High School, and Barbourville Independent—who meet traditional admissions requirements will have their tuition waived when attending Union.

On Wednesday, September 17, Union’s admissions team and President Dr. D.J. Washington visited all three county high schools, sharing exciting news directly with students. 

“We want to take care of the students in our backyard,” said James Becknell, Vice President of Undergraduate Enrollment at Union Commonwealth University. “This program allows us to ensure that local students have access to a high-quality, rigorous education right here in Knox County, while preparing them for meaningful careers and life-long success.”

Later that day, as part of Inauguration Week activities, Dr. Washington hosted the Building Bridges: Partnerships & Pathways Panel in Conway Boatman Chapel. Panelists included Beau Masterson, CEO of Barbourville ARH; Marcia Dixon, Director of Barbourville Tourism; Jeremy Ledford, Superintendent of Knox County Public Schools; and Dennis Messer, Superintendent of Barbourville Independent Schools. The discussion highlighted the positive impact of the tuition waiver program and the importance of strong partnerships between Union and the community. 

“On behalf of Knox County Public Schools, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Washington and Union Commonwealth University for their generous decision to waive tuition for our graduates of Knox Central and Lynn Camp High School, beginning with the 2025-2026 academic year.

This partnership provides an incredible opportunity for our students to pursue a college education without the burden of tuition costs. It is a life-changing investment in their futures, and one that will have a lasting impact on our community for generations to come.

We are proud to collaborate with Union Commonwealth University in our shared mission to support student success, and we are excited to see our graduates take advantage of this remarkable opportunity,” said Jeremy Ledford, Superintendent of Knox County Public Schools.

“The opportunity for our students to obtain an undergraduate degree with little to no debt is life-changing. Barbourville City Schools has a long tradition of students transitioning to Union Commonwealth University, and this will help continue that tradition.

 This opportunity will enable our community to keep the best and brightest close to home. The cost of higher education has risen each year, and this scholarship helps remove a barrier that many students face. Union Commonwealth is vital to our community, and this is just another partnership that will help local kids have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Thank you, Dr. Washington and the staff at Union Commonwealth University, for giving our students the opportunity to obtain a college degree that is affordable and close to home,” added Dennis Messer, Superintendent of Barbourville Independent Schools.

 Students must apply by November 1, 2025, to guarantee eligibility for the tuition waiver. Applications received after that date will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Admission Requirements:

High school diploma or GED before time of enrollment

Minimum 2.0 GPA

To take the next steps and apply, visit www.unionky.edu/apply.