Lehigh Carbon Community College Awarded $1 Million State Grant to Expand Tuition-Free Dual Enrollment Programs for High School Students

Published: April 24, 2026

Schnecksville, Pa., April 23, 2026 – Lehigh Carbon Community College (LCCC) has been awarded a $1 million Dual Credit Innovation Grant from the Shapiro Administration to expand its tuition-free college credit programs for local high school students.

The funding is part of a statewide $21 million investment aimed at removing financial barriers to higher education. Through this grant, eligible high school students can enroll in college-level courses at LCCC at no cost to themselves or their families. The program covers all tuition, fees, and required materials, including books.

“As a former student of Lehigh Carbon Community College, I recognize the value and opportunities that our community colleges provide for students,” said Senator Jarrett Coleman. Helping high school students earn college credits is a common-sense way to reduce the long-term cost of a degree and prepare our workforce with less debt and more experience. This investment in LCCC ensures that students in our district have a clear, affordable pathway to success.”

Expanding Access to Higher Education
LCCC is one of only ten institutions in the Commonwealth to receive this round of funding. The grant will support LCCC’s efforts to:

Remove Financial Barriers: Ensure that students from all backgrounds can begin their college careers without the burden of tuition or fees.
Accelerate Career Pathways: Provide high schoolers with a head start on degrees in high-demand fields.
Strengthen K-12 Partnerships: Enhance collaboration with regional school districts to streamline the transition from high school to post-secondary education.

This investment aligns with Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2026-27 budget goals to increase the pipeline of qualified professionals in Pennsylvania. By allowing students to earn transferable credits before high school graduation, LCCC continues to serve as a vital engine for economic mobility and workforce development in Lehigh, Carbon, and Schuylkill counties.

About Lehigh Carbon Community College
Founded in 1966, LCCC serves more than 10,000 students annually, offering over 90 programs of study, including business, criminal justice, education, healthcare, liberal arts, and technology, just to mention a few. LCCC provides an affordable, accessible, and high-quality education to residents of the Lehigh Valley and surrounding area, designed to meet the needs of today’s workforce.

For more information on dual enrollment opportunities at LCCC, please visit the admissions website or email dualenrollment@lccc.edu.