St. Thomas University Global Launches Zero-Fee May Term

New initiative aims to remove financial barriers for students returning to higher education.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:39am

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph in warm tones of a blurred scene of a laptop, books, and a coffee mug on a wooden desk, conceptually representing the flexible, online learning environment of the May Term.The zero-fee May Term from St. Thomas University Global aims to provide a flexible, accessible pathway for adult learners to re-engage with higher education.Miami Gardens Today

St. Thomas University Global, the online undergraduate division of St. Thomas University, is introducing a fully funded May Term for 2026. The program will cover all expenses, including tuition, fees, books, and materials, for eligible students to take one course during the May Term without any additional charges or financial obligations.

Why it matters

This zero-fee May Term is designed to provide an accessible and low-risk opportunity for adults in the workforce who are part-qualified to return to higher education and complete their degrees. By removing the upfront financial commitment, the university hopes to encourage more students to re-engage with their studies.

The details

The May Term will run from May 2 to May 31, 2026, and is open to new students, returning students, and individuals looking to re-engage with higher education, provided they meet the standard undergraduate entry requirements. Courses will be delivered entirely online using an asynchronous model, making them suitable for working adults and non-traditional learners. Ongoing support will be provided by dedicated success coaches.

  • The May Term will run from May 2 to May 31, 2026.

The players

St. Thomas University Global

The online undergraduate division of St. Thomas University, offering degree programs in Business Management, Finance, Marketing Management, Sports Administration, Organisational Leadership, and Catholic Education.

Clyde Lewis, Ed.D.

Associate Vice President for Financial Aid and Student Services at St. Thomas University Global.

Diego Britto

Senior Vice President for Administration and Chief Financial Officer at St. Thomas University Global.

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What they’re saying

“For many students, the biggest barrier is not ability or motivation, it is the uncertainty around cost. This gives students a clear, immediate way to begin without delay and without having to navigate a complex financial decision first.”

— Clyde Lewis, Associate Vice President for Financial Aid and Student Services

“Higher education often asks students to make a financial commitment before they fully understand the experience. This approach reverses that dynamic by allowing students to begin with no financial exposure.”

— Diego Britto, Senior Vice President for Administration and Chief Financial Officer

What’s next

Eligible students can apply to the zero-fee May Term by visiting the St. Thomas University Global website at applyglobal.stu.edu/apply.

The takeaway

This initiative from St. Thomas University Global demonstrates a commitment to making higher education more accessible and inclusive, particularly for adult learners and non-traditional students who may have faced financial barriers in the past. By removing the upfront cost, the university hopes to encourage more individuals to re-engage with their studies and complete their degrees.