The Mississippi State University Promise Program is designed to help fulfill MSU's traditional role as The People's University by offering tuition assistance and other opportunities to entering freshmen and community college transfers from economically challenging situations. Students who receive The Promise Award, which “bridges the gap” between the cost of tuition minus all other gift aid for the fall and spring semesters, are given academic support in addition to the financial assistance. Students participate in The Learning Center’s Promise Student Support Program (PSSP) to ensure their successful transition to MSU. The PSSP includes credit classes, academic counseling, and student progress monitoring.