Columbus College of Art & Design announced on December 3 a new program called Creative Pathway that will cover remaining tuition costs for eligible students from Franklin and Delaware counties. After federal and state need-based aid is applied, CCAD will pay the difference, allowing qualifying students to graduate with little or no debt.

To qualify, students must be residents of Franklin or Delaware County, graduate from a high school in one of those counties, enroll directly at CCAD without a gap year, and come from a household with an adjusted gross income of $100,000 or less. Applicants must submit the FAFSA by May 1, 2026. The first cohort will begin classes in fall 2026.

CCAD president Melanie Corn said the program addresses cost barriers for students pursuing creative careers. “We are making a bold investment in the future leaders our communities need,” Corn said. The college cited data showing Ohio’s creative industries support more than 292,000 jobs statewide.

Source: Columbus College of Art & Design