New York State has officially included a free community college plan in the enacted FY 2026 budget. The new program makes higher education more accessible for adult learners statewide.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s NYS Opportunity Promise covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies for residents aged 25 to 55. Students must pursue associate degrees at SUNY or CUNY community colleges.
The program targets fields in high demand, including nursing, teaching, technology, and engineering.
Who qualifies for free community college in New York?
New York residents between ages 25 and 55 qualify if they have not previously earned a college degree. Students must enroll in associate degree programs that connect to industries with workforce shortages.
The program supports more than four million working-age New Yorkers without a college degree.
Eligible students attending any SUNY or CUNY community college can apply. The program covers:
- Full tuition
- Required fees
- Textbooks
- Educational supplies
Workforce development driving the expansion
Governor Hochul emphasized the need to match education to workforce demand. Upstate New York is now a national semiconductor hub.
Micron’s $100 billion investment in Onondaga County is expected to create nearly 50,000 jobs statewide.
“Under my plan, every New Yorker will have the chance to pursue a free associate degree,” Hochul said.
Programs at Onondaga Community College have already seen major enrollment increases. Fields like electromechanical technology, construction management, and cybersecurity are growing rapidly.
Historic higher education investment
The Opportunity Promise builds on New York’s broader efforts to make college more affordable. The FY 2025 budget also expands the Tuition Assistance Program and boosts workforce training.
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. praised the plan. He called SUNY community colleges “engines of upward mobility” that will change lives.
Applications for the free community college program are expected to open ahead of the Fall 2025 semester.
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