What Would You Do With a Free College Education?

Free College is here for adults of all ages! As a nonprofit with a mission to get our Central Texas neighbors into great careers, Capital IDEA raises money for your college education. Each year, we raise enough to cover the tuition and textbooks for over 800 adults, just like you! Then we send you to college to get a free college degree in a high-demand career field. If you’re eligible for our program, your tuition and textbooks are already paid for by the generous support of our funders. If you’re serious about getting into a career with a future, sign up for a CareerUp information session to learn more.


We’re Proud of Our Partner Colleges!

Austin Community College   

2200+

Capital IDEA students have been placed in new careers

3X

Most graduates TRIPLE their previous earnings

$32/hr

was the average starting wage for Capital IDEA students placed in 2023

1,029

Capital IDEA students received direct support in 2023

$22M+

has been invested in our students’ tuition and books since Capital IDEA first opened in 1998

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Learn more about how we're making college FREE and how to apply.

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News & Events

Published: 2024 Annual Report

April 25, 2025 Letter From Our Executive Director Jump to: 2024 Annual Report (PDF)  Dear Friends, Supporters, and Partners, This March, at our annual Celebration of Achievements, we had the honor of recognizing over one hundred graduates—students who have persevered with dedication, passion, and purpose to achieve their dreams. These extraordinary individuals embarked on paths […]

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Thank You
Central Texas INTERFAITH

Special thanks goes to Central Texas Interfaith for their tireless work in the community and their ongoing support of Capital IDEA!