DAVIDSON, N.C. — Davidson College is significantly expanding its financial aid program, announcing that beginning in fall 2027, students from families earning up to $175,000 annually will qualify for free tuition.

The new policy applies to incoming students and increases the college’s previous income threshold, making one of North Carolina’s most selective colleges more affordable for thousands of additional families.

Students whose families earn $85,000 or less each year will have their entire cost of attendance covered, including tuition, fees, housing and meal plans.

Davidson officials say the program is funded through the Davidson Trust, the college’s endowment and on-campus employment opportunities. The college eliminated student loans from its financial aid packages in 2007 and continues to meet 100 percent of demonstrated financial need.

The college said eligibility will be based on a family’s adjusted gross income, with assets expected to be consistent with that income level. Families must still complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, to be considered.

Davidson College currently has an acceptance rate of about 12.6 percent and an endowment of approximately $1.6 billion. College leaders say the expanded financial aid program is designed to make a Davidson education more accessible while helping attract talented students as the number of college-age Americans is projected to decline over the coming years.