SAN MARCOS - Palomar College wants incoming students to go to school for free. The north San Diego County community college announced its Palomar Promise program Wednesday.

Palomar College President Joi Blake, Ed.D, said, “We want to be that game-changer.”

Palomar Promise will cover the first year of tuition and fees for first year students who just graduated from 21 nearby partner high schools. Those students will also get $1,000 to use towards textbooks.

“I know what the system can do and how it can change lives and change generations to come,” Blake said.

Students only need to enroll at Palomar College and apply for federal and state financial aid. Once they’re in class, students must maintain a 2.0 GPA, sign a Student Success Contract, and mean with a counselor to develop an education plan.

A Palomar College spokeswoman said they expect 1500 students to take advantage of the donation-funded program. Dr. Blake said many students need help with the first step.

Palomar Promise received $1.5 million in donations to aid with the first year.