POWELL, WY — Northwest College has some good news for its students and their families: despite a tuition increase recently approved by the Wyoming Community College Commission for all Wyoming community colleges, Northwest College students will not see that increase in their bills next year, including in-state, out-of-state, and WUE students.
Together, the College with the Northwest College Foundation are covering the cost of the tuition increase for new and continuing degree-seeking students enrolling for the 2026-27 academic year, so students can stay focused on their education without worrying about an added cost. The new program is called the Northwest College Bridge to Success Grant and shows NWC’s commitment to student affordability.
“We know times are tough right now for a lot of people in our community,” said Lisa Watson, President of Northwest College. “Groceries, gas, everyday expenses, it all adds up. The last thing we want is for a tuition increase to stand between a student and a high-quality education. That goes for students who are just starting out and for those who are working to finish what they started.”
The College and Foundation are also removing the caps on the Trapper Scholarship for BAS, AA, AAS, and AS degree students, so more eligible students can benefit. And in the months ahead, the Foundation will announce focused scholarship opportunities for students in select certificate programs. This is all part of a shared commitment to making sure that cost is never the reason a student has to stop or delay their education.
“The community has generously supported our Foundation through the years, and this is one of the many ways that together we can give back, especially now where costs are rising everywhere,” said Foundation Executive Director Shelby Wetzel.
Students are encouraged to register for fall classes before heading out for the summer. Getting registered early means securing a spot in the courses needed to stay on track toward a degree or certificate and starting the fall semester with one less thing to worry about.
“This community has always supported Northwest College, and we are proud to support it right back,” said Watson. “Every student who walks through our doors deserves access to a high-quality education, and together with the Foundation, we are making sure that happens.”
For more information about this and other financial aid, visit nwc.edu/financialaid.