Supporting student success
Pursuing a college education requires commitment, time management and a budget. Boise State has outlined our vision to support this mission in the Blueprint for Success. One of our goals is to improve educational access and student success. Strategies used to meet this goal include connecting students to rewarding opportunities and experiences, and addressing equity gaps.
Tuition isn’t the only financial commitment that students make when they enter college, and the cost of earning a degree varies depending on many factors. Boise State has a high percentage of commuter students. Students living off campus may incur additional expenses, like utilities, transportation, food and internet. And the educational landscape changed dramatically in the spring of 2020. Most students shifted to online instruction, and many moved home.
Benefits to Affordable Connectivity Program
In an effort to help “households get access to broadband during the pandemic, the FCC launched the largest broadband affordability program we’ve ever had in this country. It’s a unique opportunity for meaningful financial relief.” The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) provides a discount of up to $30/month toward internet service for eligible households, and up to $75/month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.
The cost of living in the Treasure Valley increased during the pandemic. Many off-campus students experienced spikes in rent and groceries. The savings a student may receive from the ACP could be allocated to other monthly needs. Eligibility is based on household income. If it’s at, or below, 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you likely qualify. Additionally, you may qualify if a member of your household receives at least one of these government benefits:Â SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, Pell grant, or free and reduced-price lunch.
Only one monthly service discount, and one device discount, is allowed per household. You’ll receive the ACP discount from a participating provider when you enroll.