Students from families earning $150,000 or less will be able to attend Occidental College tuition-free under the new Occidental Affordability Promise, a major commitment to expanding access to the College’s distinctive liberal arts experience in Los Angeles.
Beginning with students entering the College in Fall 2026, admitted students will receive guaranteed tuition support based on family income. Students from families earning between $150,000 and $250,000 will be guaranteed at least half of tuition covered, helping make the cost of an Occidental education more accessible and predictable for a broader range of families.
The guarantees represent a starting point, not a cap on assistance. Occidental will continue to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, meaning qualifying students may receive additional aid toward expenses including housing, meals, books, and transportation.
“Families should be able to understand early in the college search what an Occidental education could actually cost them,” said President Tom Stritikus. “The Occidental Affordability Promise gives families greater clarity while reinforcing a commitment of the College: talented students should be able to pursue an Occidental education regardless of their financial circumstances.”
The new program reflects the College’s broader effort to ensure that students from a wide range of backgrounds can take advantage of the opportunities available at one of the nation’s leading liberal arts colleges.
Students and families can learn more about eligibility, financial aid requirements, and the Occidental Affordability Promise on the website.
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