Sonoma State Promise
The Sonoma State Promise is our commitment to making a high-quality college education more affordable and accessible. Through this program, eligible students can have their tuition and mandatory campus fees covered, allowing them to focus on what matters most: their education, experiences, and future.
If you qualify, the Sonoma State Promise covers any remaining tuition and mandatory campus fees after your financial aid is applied. That means less financial stress and more opportunities to make the most of your college experience.
The Sonoma State Promise provides support for up to four years for first-year students and two years for transfer students, with continuous full-time enrollment and continued eligibility.
Who's Eligible?
- California resident or eligible for in-state tuition (e.g., AB 540)
- New, incoming undergraduate student: first-time freshman, fall transfer, or spring transfer
- FAFSA or CADAA completed by the priority deadline
- Pell-eligible for FAFSA filers, or Student Aid Index of 9,000 or below for CADAA filers
- Enrolled full-time (12+ units per semester)
- Undergraduate, state-side; summer term not covered
To maintain eligibility: Satisfactory Academic Progress, continued full-time enrollment, and annual FAFSA/CADAA renewal by the priority deadline. No separate program application is required.
Who’s Not Eligible?
The Sonoma State Promise doesn’t apply to:
- Continuing Sonoma State University students who entered before Fall 2026
- Graduate or credential students
- Non-California residents
- Students in Extended Education programs
If you take a gap semester or transfer to another school, the guarantee ends and won’t be extended if you return later.
How Does It Work?
The Sonoma State Promise makes paying for college easier. Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you're automatically considered for the program, and no additional application is needed!
Here's how it works: Your federal and state financial aid is applied toward tuition and mandatory campus fees first. If there's a remaining balance, Sonoma State covers the difference with university funds.
The best part? You don't have to pay these funds back!
It's our investment in your future, helping you worry less about tuition and focus more on your education, campus experiences, and everything that makes your Sonoma State journey extraordinary.