Free Associate Degrees for Adult Learners
Welcome to SUNY Reconnect! This program provides free associate degrees in high-demand fields for New York State residents ages 25-55 with no existing college degree. Whether you're pursuing a long-delayed dream, want to advance in your current field, or chart an entirely new path, SUNY Reconnect is an opportunity to invest in yourself, your family, and your future — and SUNY Delhi is proud to help you get there!
Am I eligible?
You are eligible if all of the following are true:
- You're a New York State resident (or qualify for in-state tuition).
- You're between the ages of 25 and 55 on the first day of classes.
- You have no prior associate or bachelor's degree. (You may have some prior college
credits, certificates, or microcredentials.)
Exception: You may enroll in a nursing program even if you have a prior degree. - You enroll in one of the eligible programs listed on this page (as space allows).
- You complete at least six credits per semester and finish within ten semesters (up to one-year leave allowed).
- You apply for financial aid each year (FAFSA, TAP, or the NYS DREAM Act). SUNY Reconnect covers any remaining tuition and costs after other eligible aid is applied.
What is included in a "free" college degree?
SUNY Reconnect covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies after other aid is applied. It is not retroactive to past terms.
Eligible programs at SUNY Delhi
Frequently Asked Questions
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| What is SUNY Reconnect? | 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 Delhi, the program helps adult learners complete an associate degree in high-demand fields such as nursing, mechatronics, HVAC, welding, and more. |
| Am I eligible? |
You are eligible if all of the following are true:
As an enrolled student, you have to complete at least six credits per semester and finish within ten semesters. You'll also need to apply for financial aid each year (FAFSA, TAP, or the NYS DREAM Act). SUNY Rconnect covers any remaining tuition and costs after other eligible aid is applied. |
| What does SUNY Reconnect cover? | The scholarship covers tuition, mandatory student fees, and required books and supplies. |
| What is not covered? | The program doesn't cover housing or meal plans, parking fees, transportation, childcare, or non-academic expenses. |
| Does this apply to current students or only new students? |
Both. If you are already an enrolled student in an approved degree program, you are eligible to participate. You still have to meet all the other eligibility requirements to participate in SUNY Reconnect. |
| Do I still need to apply for financial aid? |
Yes. You must complete the FAFSA and TAP (or NYS DREAM Act, if applicable), even if you don’t think you’ll qualify. SUNY Reconnect is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning it covers any remaining tuition and fee costs after other eligible aid is applied. You are not required to apply for federal loans. |
| Can I attend part-time? | Yes. You must take at least 6 credits per semester, and your degree must be completed within 10 semesters. |
| Can I take a break and return later? | You may take a break for up to one year without losing eligibility. Additional time may be granted for medical, family, or military reasons. |
| If I don't complete my degree, will I get a bill for the courses I completed? |
No. You will not be required to pay back scholarship funds through this program for completed courses. However, you may be required to pay back scholarship funds if you withdraw from courses after the drop/add period before the end of the semester. |
| I work full time. Can I take evening or online classes to fit my schedule? | Currently, all programs are taught in person on the SUNY Delhi campus. Some general education classes that count towards your degree may be available online. |
| What if I want to continue to a bachelor's program? | SUNY Reconnect covers eligible associate degrees. You may pursue a bachelor's degree after completing your associate degree, but the program not cover additional coursework towards other degree programs. |
| Can I earn credit for prior training or work experience? | SUNY Delhi may award college credit for documented college-level learning gained outside the classroom, including professional certifications, licenses, military training, non-credit coursework, on-the-job training, and relevant work experience. |
| How do I apply? | Fill out the form on this page to request more information or apply now. |
Contact
For more information, please contact our One Stop Student Services by calling (607) 746-4570 or emailing onestop@delhi.edu.