The Jumpstart on College Act seeks to significantly increase the percentage of students, particularly low-income students and those underrepresented in higher education, who complete a recognized postsecondary credential within the normal timeframe. To achieve this, the bill authorizes appropriations of $250,000,000 for fiscal year 2026 and each of the five subsequent fiscal years. These funds are reserved for competitive grants to eligible entities and States, as well as for national activities.

The Secretary of Education will award 6-year competitive grants, up to $2,000,000, to eligible entities—defined as partnerships between institutions of higher education and local educational agencies—to establish or support early college high schools or dual/concurrent enrollment programs. These grants require increasing matching funds, from 20% to 50% over the grant period. Priority is given to entities serving at least 51% low-income students, those in struggling high schools, and programs meeting established quality standards.

Mandatory uses of entity funds include creating coherent support systems for students and educators, conducting outreach to recruit diverse students, and optimizing curriculum and course sequencing. Allowable activities encompass purchasing textbooks, covering tuition and fees for postsecondary courses, incorporating work-based learning, and providing transportation. Grantees must assure that students will not pay tuition or fees and that earned postsecondary credits will be transcribed.

The bill also provides 6-year competitive grants to States, requiring a 50% non-Federal match, to assist in supporting or establishing these programs statewide. States must use funds for mandatory activities like planning and implementing strategies to expand access for underrepresented students, identifying obstacles, providing technical assistance, and improving relevant policies. Allowable State activities include offsetting costs for low-income students, creating formal transfer systems, and incentivizing teacher credentialing.

Both eligible entities and States are required to submit annual reports detailing student enrollment, credential attainment, and postsecondary enrollment, disaggregated by student categories. The Secretary will analyze these reports, identify best practices, conduct a national evaluation, and provide technical assistance to grantees.