Local families considering Bryn Mawr College won't need to fill out a separate application to be considered for free tuition.

Starting with students applying for fall 2026, the college's Beacon Initiative eliminates tuition for most families earning under $175,000 with typical assets. Every U.S. applicant who submits the FAFSA and CSS Profile is automatically considered.

That program now has institutional momentum behind it. On Saturday, the college announced it reversed a years-long decline in alumnae/donor participation during its 2025–26 fiscal year, which closed Saturday, May 31.

The college recorded a slight overall increase in the number of donors, including a 4% increase among Graduates of the Last Decade, or GOLD donors. The announcement said alumnae/gifts fund financial aid, academic programming, faculty innovation, and other priorities, including the Beacon Initiative.

Reunion classes drove much of the participation surge. Most classes met their donor goals, and many doubled or tripled them, collectively bringing in nearly 500 additional donors, according to the college. Bob Miller, vice president for alumnae/relations and development, called every gift a vote of confidence in the college, noting that recent graduates are navigating a challenging economy.

Gianna Quinn, senior director of alumnae/engagement, said the strong reunion participation reflects the lasting connection graduates feel to Bryn Mawr.

What the Beacon Initiative means for Lower Merion families

Bryn Mawr College, at 101 N. Merion Ave., says it is one of fewer than 2.5% of U.S. colleges that meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for all undergraduates. The Beacon Initiative, announced in October 2025, builds on that commitment by replacing a prior no-loan program that covered families earning under $110,000.

The college estimates roughly 85% of U.S. households with typical assets would qualify, though it has not publicly defined what "typical assets" means. Bryn Mawr's listed tuition and fees were $65,920 for the 2024–25 academic year, according to federal IPEDS data.

Families interested in eligibility details can visit brynmawr.edu/admissions-aid/tuition-financial-aid/aid-policies-resources/beacon-initiative for financial aid timelines and application information.