New York will begin offering free community college tuition to adult learners in 2025, under a new program funded by the FY 2026 state budget. The initiative targets students aged 25 to 55 who want to earn an associate degree in a high-demand field such as healthcare, education, or manufacturing.
Governor Kathy Hochul said the investment will help close workforce gaps while giving New Yorkers a path to upward mobility.
Who qualifies for free tuition?
The new program covers tuition costs at public community colleges across the state for:
- Adults between ages 25 and 55
- Students pursuing associate degrees in eligible career-focused programs
- Applicants who meet basic residency and enrollment requirements
The state allocated $47 million for the first year of the program. It will launch in fall 2025 in partnership with SUNY and CUNY systems.
What fields are eligible?
To qualify, students must pursue a degree in a high-need workforce sector, such as:
- Healthcare (nursing, radiology tech, medical assisting)
- Education (teaching assistants, early childhood education)
- Advanced manufacturing
- Green energy and clean technology
- Information technology
The list of approved programs will be updated annually based on labor demand.
Why New York is expanding access for adult learners
Governor Hochul emphasized that many working-age adults are stuck in low-wage jobs or industries with no growth.
“This is about second chances and stronger futures,” Hochul said. “We’re giving adults the chance to upskill without going into debt—and helping employers fill critical shortages.”
How the program will work
Eligible students will apply through their local community colleges. The state will cover remaining tuition costs after federal and state financial aid is applied.
Unlike Excelsior and TAP, which primarily support traditional students, this program is customized for adult learners returning to school later in life.
Support services such as child care, transportation aid, and career coaching may be offered through partner campuses.
Broader education and workforce goals
This initiative complements other FY 2026 budget measures aimed at improving affordability and workforce readiness:
- $1 billion in middle-class tax cuts
- Free school meals for all K–12 students
- Expanded child care access and subsidies
- $1 billion in climate and green energy training programs
Together, these efforts aim to prepare more New Yorkers for the jobs of the future while removing cost barriers.
What comes next
The free tuition program for adult learners will begin accepting applications in mid-2025. The state will release detailed eligibility guidelines and school-specific program lists later this year.
Officials expect strong demand across regions, particularly in communities facing job losses or industry shifts.
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