Governor Kathy Hochul / July 27, 2025
When my dad got a college education, our whole family got a shot at a better life. I want more New Yorkers to have that opportunity.
Starting this fall, community college will be completely free for adult learners looking to enter high-demand fields. Because no one should have to choose between financial security and a college education.
SUNY and CUNY Reconnect will give students the opportunity to pursue their career goals and prepare for meaningful, high-demand careers right here in New York State. And the Reconnect programs don’t just cover tuition – they cover the cost of books, fees, and supplies for students, too.
You can attend community college for FREE starting this fall if you:
- Are a resident of New York State or eligible for in-state tuition
- Are between the ages of 25-55
- Don’t currently have a degree
- Are planning to study full-or part-time in one of 175 eligible SUNY associate degree programs or one of 120+ eligible CUNY associate degree programs.
- Apply to SUNY Schools
- Apply to CUNY Schools
Our free community college program just hit a huge milestone: 10,000 New Yorkers have submitted their applications and are ready to earn their degree! I got to meet a few of them at Suffolk County Community College earlier this week.
By breaking down barriers to higher education, we’re opening doors to a brighter future and helping more New Yorkers access the affordable, high quality education that SUNY offers.
Free community college is just one part of my work to make New York more affordable. We’ve delivered more than $5.5 billion in relief to hardworking New Yorkers, including middle class tax cuts and inflation refund checks, tuition assistance, heating and cooling assistance, and child care assistance and paid leave for families. I’m never going to stop fighting for you and your family.
