Governor Kathy Hochul on Wednesday announced a plan to offer free community college tuition to adult learners ages 25 to 55, aiming to boost workforce development and fill in-demand jobs across New York.
Hochul said her New York State Opportunity Promise proposal would cover tuition, fees and books for eligible students pursuing associate degrees in high-demand fields such as nursing, teaching, technology and engineering at SUNY and CUNY community colleges, according to a press release.
“When my dad got a college education, our whole family got a shot at a better life — and I want New Yorkers to have that opportunity,” Hochul said. “Under my plan, every New Yorker will have the chance to pursue a free associate degree at SUNY and CUNY community colleges to help fill the in-demand jobs of tomorrow.”
State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. praised the initiative, calling community colleges "engines of upward mobility."
“SUNY’s community colleges are incredible engines of upward mobility, and Governor Hochul’s Free Community College plan will literally change the lives of New Yorkers seeking a degree in a high-demand field," said King.
The FY 2025 Enacted Budget included an expansion of the Tuition Assistance Program to help more New Yorkers cover the cost of college.
In Brooklyn, adult learners can get an associates degree at Kingsborough Community College and Medgar Evers College.
