Courtesy of Virginia State University
In a bold move to transform the landscape of higher education in West Virginia, West Virginia State University has unveiled the Yellow Jacket Pledge. The innovative program prioritizes access, affordability, and career readiness to ensure student success. The initiative was announced to the WVSU Board of Governors and will take effect in the fall 2025 semester.
“With The Yellow Jacket Pledge, West Virginia State University is setting the standard for access, affordability, and career readiness for higher education in West Virginia,” said WVSU President Ericke S. Cage. “We know that higher education must change to meet the demands of today’s workforce, and we are taking bold steps to address these demands head-on.”
Yellow Jacket Pledge Promises
The cornerstone of The Yellow Jacket Pledge is guaranteed admission for all West Virginia high school graduates who maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA. Additionally, students who have accumulated at least 30 credit hours from a West Virginia community or technical college with the same GPA or those who have obtained an associate’s degree from a West Virginia community college will also qualify for guaranteed admission.
Furthermore, WVSU is freezing in-state tuition rates for incoming students for eight semesters, providing financial predictability during their academic journey. Room and board rates for students residing on campus will also remain unchanged for the upcoming academic year. WVSU will eliminate application fees to enhance affordability, removing another financial barrier for prospective students.
Recognizing the vital connection between education and career readiness, The Yellow Jacket Pledge also addresses post-graduation employment challenges. Graduates who find themselves unemployed one year after completing their degree will be eligible to take additional courses at WVSU at no extra cost for up to a year, allowing them to bolster their skills and increase their marketability.
In addition to these initiatives, WVSU is enhancing access to its Regents Bachelor of Arts degree program. The RBA is specifically tailored for non-traditional students who have been out of high school for at least four years. New RBA students will benefit from a complimentary first semester that covers tuition and fees.
“This comprehensive approach guarantees that West Virginia State University is with you every step of the way, from the classroom to your career success,” Cage added.