Governor Hochul Announces Over 16,500 Applications for New York's Free Community College Program Covering Full Tuition for Adult Learners Pursuing In-Demand Fields

Program Covers Tuition, Books, Fees and Supplies for Adult New Yorkers Ages 25-55; Expands Access to Higher Education and Career Mobility to Millions of Adult Learners
CUNY and SUNY Reconnect Applications Still Open, Link To Apply Available for SUNY and CUNY

Governor Hochul today rallied with students, staff and faculty at LaGuardia Community College, a CUNY campus, to celebrate the more than 16,500 New Yorkers statewide who have applied to her landmark free community college program for adults in high-demand fields through CUNY and SUNY Reconnect. Beginning in Fall 2025, CUNY and SUNY Reconnect builds upon Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment to expand access to higher education, strengthen New York’s workforce, and provide pathways to good-paying careers for adult learners.

“The cost of pursuing a degree should never be a barrier for New Yorkers – we are proud to provide an opportunity for millions of CUNY and SUNY students to achieve their dreams,” Governor Hochul said. “I am committed to making education more affordable and accessible, and the Reconnect program continues to pave the way forward for students as they enter our State’s future workforce.”

As part of Governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State address, free community college for adults in high-demand fields builds on her legacy of ensuring that all New Yorkers have access to a world-class and affordable education.

For the four million working-age adults in New York who do not already have a college degree or credential, the free community college program for adult students provides a valuable education at CUNY and SUNY campuses, with tuition, fees, books and supplies all covered after applicable financial aid.

Eligible high-demand fields include:

Advanced manufacturing
Artificial Intelligence
Cybersecurity
Engineering
Technology
Nursing and allied health fields
Green and renewable energy
Pathways to Teaching in shortage areas

In order to ensure that students have the tools they need to succeed, the program includes funding for SUNY and CUNY to support retention through wrap-around supports such as academic advising and student success coaching, as well as funding to support marketing for effective outreach for the program.

CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez said, “Each year, CUNY community colleges enable thousands of New Yorkers to transform their lives. By removing financial barriers for adult learners in high-demand fields at CUNY’s community colleges, Governor Hochul and the state legislature have made it clear it’s never too late to start or re-start your higher education journey. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her tireless commitment to CUNY and to the promise of public higher education.”

LaGuardia Community College President Kenneth Adams said, “Community colleges play a vital role in higher education and workforce development by providing accessible, affordable, and career-focused education, particularly for underserved populations. Offering free community college enhances the impact they have on the lives of New Yorkers. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her unwavering dedication to higher education and her work to expand opportunities for every New Yorker.”

State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris said, “It's incredible to see thousands of New Yorkers be able to continue their education and pursue new opportunities through the free community college program. I'm proud that in partnership with Governor Hochul, the New York legislature was able to make college more accessible and affordable for New Yorkers.”

State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, “Everyone's educational journey is different. Sometimes the path has hurdles and challenges. This initiative will enable students between the ages of 25 to 55 to complete their journey. It also expands work force development in high demand fields. As a result, everyone benefits. I want to thank Governor Hochul, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, and Speaker Heastie for enacting this creative approach.”

Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman said, “As Chair of the Higher Education Committee, I am proud to see New York leading the way in expanding access to life-changing educational opportunities. The SUNY and CUNY Reconnect programs are breaking down barriers for adult learners—many of whom are balancing work, family, and other responsibilities—by making college truly affordable and within reach. By investing in our people and preparing them for careers in high-demand fields, we are not only transforming individual lives but strengthening the economic future of our communities and our state.”