For students in LeBron James’ I Promise program, the dream of affording college just got a whole lot easier. 

Kent State University announced that it will offer free tuition for four years and free boarding and meal costs for one year to students that are in the program. Originally reported in an article from the institution by Lisa Abraham, this is an expansion of an existing summer partnership between the LeBron James Family Foundation and Kent State University. 

University President, Todd Diacon, said, “Kent State looks forward to the time when our campus is teeming with I PROMISE students.” The earliest this offer can be redeemed by the first class of the I PROMISE program will be the Fall 2021 semester. 

Both organizations were sure to point out that the path to this enticing reward is not easy for the students in the program. After joining the I PROMISE program in the third grade, students must work hard and overcome numerous obstacles to stay in good academic standing and reach their goals. 

Executive Director of the LeBron James Family Foundation, Michele Campbell, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The I PROMISE program is built on the ‘earned, not given’ philosophy.”

And the hard work won’t end there. To continue to be eligible for the program, qualifying students not only have to stay in good academic standing, they also have to participate in community service, volunteer, or be employed in a work-study program. This is part of the university’s belief that service back into the community is one of the best ways to build stronger networks. 

Notably, the program contains no student loans – a novel concept in a time when the student loan debt is over 1.3 trillion dollars. The university is also fundraising already to cover the additional three years of room and board and academic supplies. 

Programs like these are paving the way for kids in underserved communities, making it possible to get a degree and give back to their communities.

The LeBron James Family Foundation I Promise program is featured in the documentary film Unlikely slated for digital release on March 10 and available for pre-order on Apple TV today.