SUNY Reconnect

Am I eligible?

• Eligible student requirements include:
  • Resident of New York State or eligible for in-state tuition
  • At least 25 years old by the first day of the enrollment semester AND
  • No older than 55 years on January 1 of the year in which they enroll
  • Does not currently have a degree
  • Can have college credits, certificate, or microcredential(s)
  • Enrolled in approved associate degree program at a SUNY community college 

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.

I already have some college credits – can those be counted towards my degree?
SUNY has a new policy to promote credit for prior learning. Campuses will review student transcripts to determine which credits transfer. 

If I received a certificate and want to continue to an associate degree, am I eligible?
Yes. Students who have not earned a degree are eligible.

Can I attend part-time? How long do I have to finish my degree?
Yes, students may attend full-time or part-time. Students must take a minimum of 6 credits per semester and complete their degree within 10 semesters.

If I have to take a break from classes, will I still be eligible when I return?
Students may take leave for one academic year without receiving credits before becoming ineligible for the scholarship program. Campuses may grant students additional exemptions if needed for various circumstances (e.g., military service, medical reasons, etc.) 

I'm not currently in an approved program – how do I get the scholarship?
Only approved majors qualify for the scholarship. Campus advisors can work with you to help you decide if one of the approved majors is right for you.

I'm currently 24 years old and will turn 25 after the semester starts – am I eligible for the program?
To be eligible for the program you must be 25-55 years old as of the first day of classes for the semester. If you are 24 on the first day of classes, you will not be eligible for the program for that semester.

I'm in an approved program but will turn 56 before I can complete my associate degree – will I still get financial coverage after I age out?
Students participating in the SUNY Reconnect program who turn 56 while completing an approved degree will remain eligible for the duration of the degree program given you complete the program within the allotted timeframe.

Am I required to maintain a minimum grade?
Yes, students will need to maintain good academic standing in accordance with the college's academic standards and any specific program requirements.

Do I have to work in New York State after I complete my degree?
There are no in-state work or residency requirements following degree completion.

The semester just started but I'm not already enrolled – can I show up to the campus and enroll today?
As long as your desired campus is still accepting applications for an approved program. An enrollment advisor can help you get registered and enrolled in an available program.

What does the Opportunity Promise Scholarship cover?
The program will cover tuition, fees, books, and required supplies required for your specific degree program.

How much funding will I receive?
To receive scholarship funds, students must apply for TAP, and if applicable, the NYS Dream Act. After all awards are compiled, the program will cover any remaining balance to attend. Students are encouraged to fill out the FAFSA form to maximize available aid.

What does after "all" other financial aid mean?  What if I qualify for federal loans?
The program will cover any remaining balance after all other financial aid including (but not limited to) TAP, Pell, and Excelsior Scholarship (if applicable). Prospective students are not required to apply for federal loans to be eligible for this program.

What if I need other required courses before entering the program? Are those free?
If a student in an approved degree program is required to take a remedial, pre-requisite, and/or co-requisite course as part of their program of study, those courses will be covered. Courses that need to be taken prior to entering the degree program do not qualify.

What if I already started paying money on a payment plan or with loans to cover tuition? Do I get that back if I'm eligible for the scholarship?
 Funding will be available starting in the Fall 2025 semester and will not be retroactive to past semesters.

What is not covered by the program?
Funding does not cover room and board/housing (where applicable), transportation, meal plans, and other non-academic expenses.

If I have a financial hold with a community college and stopped out, am I eligible?
Students with a past balance or have stopped out and have a financial hold are eligible to enroll. Past balances will not be forgiven under State Finance Law so students will need to work with their campus to address the outstanding balance.

I receive in-state tuition through the Dream Act or my GI Bill – am I eligible for financial support?
Yes. Anyone who receives in-state tuition is eligible.

If I drop out without completing my degree, will I get a bill for the courses I took?
No. Students who do not complete will not be required to pay back scholarship funds through this program.

I'm already enrolled in another program (ASAP, EOP, etc.) – am I eligible for both?
Yes, students who meet all eligibility requirements and are already in another program can receive funding. Funding through NYS Opportunity Promise scholarship will be applied after all other financial aid.

Will the campus purchase my required books and/or supplies for me or will I need to buy them and provide a receipt to be reimbursed?
Campuses will place funds for books and supplies on a student's account for use. See specific campus requirements for details on purchasing books and supplies.

Do I need to submit a Certificate of Residency (COR)?
Yes. All eligible students who are required to complete a COR must do so on an annual basis and must meet campus COR requirements and deadlines to be eligible for SUNY Reconnect.

What degree programs are eligible?
Eligible programs include associate degree programs in high-demand areas of advanced manufacturing; nursing and allied health; engineering; technology, cybersecurity, and AI; green jobs; and teaching pathways in shortage areas. 

Are pre-nursing programs included?
Pre-nursing programs are not included. 

What programs have competitive admission vs. open enrollment?
Please check with your desired campus for program specific enrollment requirements.

The program I want is full and not accepting new students. Can I get on a waitlist?
Contact your campus admissions office to see if waitlists are available or if there are related programs available for you to enroll immediately.

My local community college does not offer the program I want. Can I attend a different college?
Yes, if your local campus does not offer the program you are interested in, you may apply to another SUNY community college in person or online. For a full list of programs and campuses please visit our webpage.

I work full time. Will there be evening and online programs available to fit my schedule?
Class availability varies. Please reach out to your campus to inquire.

There are summer courses offered in my desired program – are those covered?
Summer and winter term courses may be eligible. Check with your campus to see what courses in your program can be included.

Will I be awarded credit for my military training?
SUNY has a new policy to promote credit for prior learning. Credit for military education or training will vary by campus. If you have military training, certifications, or licenses, reach out to your campus to see what credits might be available for your desired major.

What type of advising will I receive from the program?
All SUNY community colleges will provide academic advising for students in the program. Once enrolled, you can meet with an advisor to discuss options and degree planning.