Higher Education for Senior Citizens and Veterans (space-available tuition exemption)
Utah public colleges and universities (Utah Code 53H-11-304)
Utah residents 62 or older and veterans can take classes at Utah public colleges on a space-available basis exempt from tuition and other charges, paying only a registration fee.
- How much
- Tuition and other charges waived except a registration fee (space-available classes)
- Who qualifies
- Utah resident aged 62+ or veteran
- Space-available only; institution decides availability. Registration fee still applies.
- For adults going back to school
- When to apply
- Apply any time Each term, after regular registration (space-available).
- How to apply
- Contact the registrar or admissions office at a Utah public college or university and ask about senior citizen / veteran space-available enrollment
- Register after regular registration
- Last checked
- October 5, 2026, against the official page (le.utah.gov)
The details
Utah Code 53H-11-304: Utah public institutions must allow Utah residents who are 62 or older, or who are veterans (as defined in Utah Code 68-3-12.5), to enroll in classes they are qualified for on a surplus-space basis in regularly scheduled classes. These students are exempt from tuition and other charges except a registration fee set by the Board. Enrollment happens only after regularly enrolled students are placed; each institution decides space under Board rules. Senior-citizen enrollees are not counted as full-time students.
More money from Utah
- Opportunity ScholarshipClass of 2026: up to $800 per semester for up to four semesters ($3,200 total); tuition and general fees only, after other state aid. Class of 2027 amount not yet announced.
- First Credential Scholarship (formerly PRIME)$625 one-time (class of 2026; subject to available funding and number of qualified applicants)
- Adult Learner Grant ProgramUp to the cost of attendance
- CTE Scholarships and Tuition Awards$1,000 to full tuition for up to one year, depending on the institution
- NASA Space Grant Scholarship (Utah technical colleges)Varies based on available funding; up to cost of attendance
Keep looking
- Answer a few questions to see every program you qualify for
- Nearby states: Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Wyoming
- Federal aid and national scholarships (open to students in any state)
- The FAFSA in plain English (2027-28)
- Should I file the FAFSA if I don't think I'll qualify?
- FAFSA deadlines by state (2027-28)
- The FAFSA for parents: what you need to do
- How to save on textbooks: free, rented and cheaper options
We list programs; we don't decide who gets them. Always check the official page before you apply. Spot something wrong? Tell us.