Bucks has created this page due to the large volume of inquiries with some misconceptions about how the college is funded. Many of the questions are regarding the college's free tuition program for laid off County residents, and President Obama's proposal for additional funding for community colleges.

The cost of a student attending Bucks is paid for by three main sources: tuition & fees, Bucks County government funds and Pennsylvania State government funds.

The free tuition program for laid off County residents created by the college Board of Trustees is possible mainly because free tuition program students fill otherwise empty seats in classes that were already being offered. Free tuition program students are required to register for classes only after students who pay tuition have had an opportunity to register.

All students are encouraged to apply for financial aid, and those in the free tuition program are required to do so. Financial aid may include federal grants and/or federally guaranteed loans. Unlike free tuition program students, recipients of financial aid may register early, and books and course fees (such as lab fees) may also be covered.

Because there are a limited number of empty seats, the Board of Trustees has developed criteria, policies and procedures to determine who may take advantage of the free tuition program.

The college receives no additional funds to offset the additional administrative costs of serving the students currently enrolled in the free tuition program.

President Obama has proposed additional funding for community colleges. Congress has not yet acted on this proposal. More details on the proposal are here.