College Thriving Act

This bill would create a grant program at the U.S. Department of Education to help colleges offer a “skills-for-success” course to every first‑year student, including transfer students. The course would be small, graded pass/fail or ungraded, and teach practical skills like time management, handling stress, and setting goals. Grants would be awarded competitively, with priority for colleges where at least half of students are eligible for Pell Grants.

Colleges that get a grant would build and roll out the course over five years: year 1 to plan, year 2 to pilot and test, and years 3–5 to offer it broadly and keep improving it. They must evaluate results and report back at the end of the five‑year period. The bill also authorizes $50 million and allows the department to offer technical help to colleges applying, with extra support for Pell‑serving schools .

• Who is affected: First‑year college students (including transfers) and colleges, especially those serving many Pell‑eligible students .
• What changes: Competitive grants to create a small, low‑pressure course that teaches success skills; required evaluation and a final report .
• When: Five‑year grants with planning in year 1, pilot in year 2, full rollout in years 3–5; $50 million authorized until spent.