Gov. Kelly Ayotte is proposing a community college tuition program for New Hampshire families earning up to $100,000, with the first students eligible in fall 2027 if lawmakers approve it.

The proposal would cover remaining tuition after federal and state grants at New Hampshire's seven community colleges, according to the governor's Oct. 14 announcement. College fees would not be covered.

Ayotte plans to include the program in her fiscal 2028-29 budget proposal. Lawmakers would have to approve the program before students could receive the aid.

Eligibility would require New Hampshire residency, admission to a community college degree or certificate program, completion of the federal financial-aid application and enrollment in at least six credits. Students would need a minimum 2.0 grade-point average and satisfactory academic progress.

The income limit would apply to families with typical assets. Both new and currently enrolled students could qualify under the proposal.

Because the aid would fill a gap after other grants, a student's award would depend on existing assistance and tuition charges. The announcement does not make fees or other college expenses free.