Teacher helping a student with his classwork in a library.

To take advantage of SUNY Reconnect, you’ll need to meet a few basic requirements:

  • You must be between 25 and 55 years old—at least 25 by the time classes begin, and no older than 55 as of January 1 of the year you enroll. Once you’re in the program, you’ll have up to 10 semesters to finish your degree, even if you turn 56 along the way.
  • SUNY Reconnect is designed for students who have not yet earned a college degree. If you’ve taken some college classes or earned a certificate, that’s absolutely okay.
  • You’ll need to enroll in an eligible associate degree program at SUNY Broome and take at least 6 credits each semester. The courses you take must count toward your degree—this helps ensure you’re making steady progress.
  • Because SUNY Reconnect works alongside financial aid, you’ll also need to apply for aid each year (FAFSA, TAP, or the NYS DREAM Act, depending on your situation).
  • Finally, you’ll need to be a New York State resident (or qualify for in-state tuition) and submit a Certificate of Residency from your home county each year.

Eligible Areas of Study

Explore SUNY Broome’s eligible associate degree programs through SUNY Reconnect.

Areas of study include Advanced Manufacturing, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Engineering, and Green & Renewable Energy, Nursing and Health Professions, Pathway to Teaching, and Technology, with many offered online or in hybrid formats.

Program Online
Adolescence Education Studies 50%
Business Information Management 100%
Chemical Dependency Counseling
Civil Technology
Clinical Laboratory Technician * 100%
Computer Science 50%
Computer Security and Forensics 100%
Computer Technology 50%
Dental Hygiene *
Early Childhood/Childhood Education Studies 50%
Electrical Technology
Engineering Science
Environmental Science 50%
Health Information Technology 100%
Health Sciences 100%
Health Studies 50%
Homeland Security & Emergency Management 50%
Manufacturing Technology
Mechanical Technology
Nursing *
Paramedic
Physical Therapist Assistant *
Radiologic Technology *
Web Development and Management 100%

* This is a competitive Program: Please see our Competitive Health Science Programs page for more information.

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.

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.

SUNY Broome Career Services offers a wide range of services including resume review, interview preparation, and job search support.

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.

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SUNY Reconnect News

SUNY Reconnect | The Buzz SUNY Broome News

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