Revitalizing Bridgeport—One scholar at a time
Earn up to $2000 annually to a CONNECTICUT Institution
APPLICATION OPENS OCTOBER 15
ABOUT US
Where education and economics thrive
The Bridgeport Promise Scholarship Program intends to dismantle financial obstacles while bolstering the number of college graduates who have attended the Bridgeport Public Schools. Starting with the class of 2026, Promise Scholars will receive a minimum of $1250 per year in financial assistance to attend a partner Connecticut-based college or university. The Bridgeport Promise provides financial scholarships, resources, and support services for local college-bound students to enrich their lives and strengthen our community.
Overall, the Bridgeport Promise Scholarship Program aims to identify, support, and reward students who demonstrate academic excellence, consistent attendance, financial need, and a commitment to serving their community. By meeting these eligibility criteria, students can access financial assistance to pursue their higher education goals.
Our scholarship supports Bridgeport Public School students who:
- Is a Bridgeport Resident
- Has attended Bridgeport Public Schools continuously from grades 9-12
- Has 90%+ attendance rate
- Has a cumulative 3.0+ weighted GPA by high school graduation
- Has a positive disciplinary record throughout high school
- Has been accepted into a 2- or 4- year CT accredited college/university full-time (by their confirmed high school graduation date)
Percentage of BPS students who applied to CT institutions
# of high school students in BPS district
Average # of applications completed by BPS students
Top 5 CT institutions with enrollment from BPS Class of 2025 (in order): UCONN, HCC, SCSU, UNH, SHU
OUR COLLEGE PARTNERSHIPS
LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT
Joe Ganim
MAYOR OF BRIDGEPORT
"The Bridgeport Promise Program is the ultimate steppingstone for Bridgeport students to begin planning for their college education. With expenses on the rise, our goal is to support our students by helping to bridge economic gaps to higher learning. Our students deserve the best, which is why we’ve committed to assisting young teens and adults transition to a college education with less financial strain on their families."
Dr. Royce Avery
Acting Superintendent of Schools
"The launch of the Bridgeport Promise is a pivotal moment for our district: it is our unwavering commitment to our students, ensuring that their hard work in the classroom unlocks their potential for long-term success, as we officially remove financial barriers to college and create a clear path for them to become our next generation of community leaders."
Faith Villegas
Executive Director
“The vision of the “founding four” of the BPEF is alive and well today. Their vision has shaped not only the future of the organization but generations of students in years past. I am both proud and honored to be able to carry on their legacy. As a Bridgeport Public Schools alumna, it is a privilege to be trusted to lead this effort. Bridgeport Promise is greater than a scholarship program—it is a long-term commitment to improving the lives of students and families in our community.”
OUR COMMUNITY
Bridgeport's Promise
Stories and updates celebrating the students, families, and partners shaping Bridgeport’s future.
Jun 3, 2025
High School In Bridgeport To Expand Career & Technical Offerings
BRIDGEPORT, CT — Bridgeport Public Schools is set to expand its career and technical education offerings at the new Bassick High School, scheduled to open for the 2025–2026 academic year.
Aug 27, 2025
A school with a view: New Bassick High School set to open on the University of Bridgeport's campus
BRIDGEPORT — Standing in the gymnasium of the new Bassick High School in the South End, Principal Joseph Raiola was quick to point out what he feels is one of that space's — and really the entire building's — crucial amenities.
Sept 15, 2025
BPS Launches First-Ever Enrollment Center with CT State Housatonic
Bridgeport, CT – Bridgeport Public Schools announces a groundbreaking partnership with CT State Housatonic to launch the district’s first-ever Central Registration Center—a new initiative designed to support families across the city by streamlining the student enrollment process and expanding access to essential resources.
Applications are open for Bridgeport Public Schools’ 2024 graduating class!
Invest in Bridgeport’s next generation—100% of donations fund student scholarships.
We are excited to have you join our efforts in preparing young people for success. The Bridgeport Promise Scholarship Program will help remove the financial and social barriers to college completion and career readiness. Your gift will transform the lives of students and families for generations to come.