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Boost Your Earning Power with a Free Associate Degree!

Are you between the ages of 25 – 55, without a college degree? The SUNY Reconnect program makes it possible for New Yorkers to earn a FREE associate degree in high-demand fields like healthcare, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, AI, and more.

Please note: Students are eligible if they are at least 25 years old at the time of enrollment, and no older than 55 years on January 1 of the year in which they enroll.

Eligible Areas of Study

Explore SUNY Broome’s eligible associate degree programs through SUNY Reconnect. Many offer online or hybrid options, and all are designed to prepare you for in-demand careers or transfer to top bachelor’s programs.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about SUNY Reconnect at SUNY Broome

SUNY Reconnect is a New York State program that provides free tuition, fees, books, and required supplies for eligible New Yorkers ages 25–55 who do not yet hold a college degree. At SUNY Broome, the program helps adult learners complete an associate degree in high-demand fields such as healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy.

To qualify for SUNY Reconnect at SUNY Broome, students must:

  • Be 25 to 55 years old as of the first day of the semester
  • Be a New York State resident or qualify for in-state tuition
  • Not already hold a college degree (certificates or some prior credits are okay)
  • Enroll in an eligible associate degree program at SUNY Broome
  • Take at least 6 credits per semester

Apply for financial aid (FAFSA, TAP, or NYS DREAM Act)

Yes. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and are enrolled in an approved degree program, you can benefit from the SUNY Reconnect scholarship—even if you’re already enrolled or have previously earned a certificate or some college credits.

Yes. You must take at least 6 credits per semester. SUNY Broome also offers flexible scheduling, including evening, weekend, and online options.

You may take a break for up to one year without losing eligibility. Additional time may be granted for medical, family, or military reasons.

You won’t need to repay funds already awarded, but future eligibility may be affected. The 10-semester limit still applies even if you change programs.

The scholarship covers:

  • Tuition (at the in-state rate)
  • Mandatory fees
  • Required books and supplies
  • May also include a computer or technology allowance

The program does not cover:

  • Housing or meal plans
  • Parking or late fees
  • Transportation or childcare
  • Non-academic expenses

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Yes. All students must complete the FAFSA and TAP (or NYS DREAM Act, if applicable), even if they don’t think they’ll qualify. SUNY Reconnect is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning it covers any remaining tuition and fee costs after other eligible aid is applied. Please note: You are not required to take out loans, and it’s okay if you don’t qualify for financial aid—but completing the FAFSA and TAP applications is still a required step in the process.

Yes, you may still register for classes, but you are responsible for any past-due balance. SUNY Reconnect does not forgive prior debt and cannot be applied retroactively before Fall 2025.

SUNY Broome reviews prior transcripts and military training for transfer credit under SUNY’s credit-for-prior-learning policy. Speak with an academic advisor to explore your options.

SUNY Broome offers personalized academic advising to help you select the right program, stay on track to graduation, and connect to campus services.

Yes. Our Career, Transfer & Bachelor Partnership Services can connect you to local employers, internship opportunities, job search support, and more.

SUNY Broome’s eligible programs lead to careers in fields with strong job growth and competitive salaries. Visit Our Programs or contact us to explore salary ranges and career pathways.

For further details please visit SUNY’s Reconnect FAQ page.

Contact Us

What’s covered with SUNY Reconnect?

SUNY Reconnect covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies after all other financial aid—helping you earn your degree without the financial burden.

suny reconnect student walking with stroller