State University of New York (SUNY) campuses are gearing up to launch Governor Kathy Hochul’s free community college program.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. announced that the program, which was approved in the FY25-26 enacted budget, will start in Fall 2025 in community colleges throughout the state through SUNY Reconnect. The community colleges will provide free tuition, fees, books, and supplies for adults ages 25-55 who don’t already have a college degree and pursue an associate degree in a high-demand field.
“I applaud Governor Hochul for fighting tirelessly to advance higher education and affordability, and I thank the State Legislature for supporting this proven model to help unleash New Yorkers’ full potential,” said SUNY Chancellor King. “The SUNY Reconnect program, launching for the Fall 2025 term, will help break barriers to a college degree and provide financial support and flexibility for adult students to enroll, and more importantly, to succeed through to graduation at one of our excellent community colleges.”
This program aims to help empower New Yorkers and help working-age adults earn a valuable education at SUNY campuses, with tuition, fees, books, and supplies all covered after applicable financial aid.
In order to be eligible for the program, prospective students must enroll in Advanced manufacturing, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Engineering, Technology, Nursing and allied health fields, Green and renewable energy and Pathways to Teaching in shortage areas. Eligible students will have access to advising and support, and the SUNY Reconnect program will help connect eligible New Yorkers to find job opportunities in advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and AI.
The FY25-26 Enacted State Budget is also providing $8 million in increased operating aid to community colleges and maintains that the 100% community college funding floor, which protects community colleges from $75 million lost direct state tax support. The budget will also provide more significant funding to support New York’s Educational Opportunity Program, which has served more than 85,000 students, and increased support for ASAP|ACE. Hochul also recently announced a $1.1 million grant for the SUNY Adult Learner Leadership Initiative to help community colleges increase access and ensure degree completion for adult learners.
SUNY Board Trustee Robert J. Duffy, Chair of the Community Colleges Committee, said, “SUNY’s community colleges have long been a source of opportunity for New Yorkers. Our campuses provide an excellent education with robust support and an academic curriculum that prepares students for success in the workforce and continued education. The Governor’s free community college program will mean so much for adult learners and our campuses are ready to serve them today.”
Dr. Kristine Young, president of SUNY Orange and of the New York Community College Association of Presidents (NYCCAP), said, “SUNY’s community colleges are proud to join Governor Hochul and Chancellor King in opening doors for more adult learners across New York,” said “Many of these students will be taking their first steps into college, and our campuses are ready to welcome them, guide them through the admissions process, and support their success in the classroom and beyond. Since our founding, community colleges have offered local, affordable pathways to quality higher education. SUNY Reconnect strengthens that mission while advancing the Governor’s vision for a skilled workforce and greater economic mobility, all with little or no cost to the student.”
Through SUNY Reconnect, New Yorkers can learn about the program through information sessions this summer. For more information, visit suny.edu/freeCC.
