Free Associate Degrees for Adult Learners
(Re)Connect with Canton
Learn in-demand skills for jobs in growing fields like health care, engineering, automotive tech, and HVAC with a 2-year associate degree from SUNY Canton. Now free for New Yorkers 25-55 with no degree. No previous SUNY Canton coursework required.
Eligibility
Eligibility for free tuition in a high-demand field requires meeting these criteria:
- ✔ New York State resident
- ✔ 25-55 years old
- ✔ No college degree*
- ✔ Planning to study full-time or part-time in an eligible degree program
Financial Aid
The Opportunity Promise Scholarship (Reconnect) ensures that eligible students can complete a degree with their core academic costs covered, filling in any remaining gap after financial aid, such as NYS TAP without requiring loans.
Have questions? Learn more about financial aid.
Ready? Let's Go!
Boost your earning power with a free associate degree in a high-demand field. It’s a tremendous deal that can change your life! Our Admissions team is available to answer your questions and walk you through the process.
Explore Qualifying Free Programs
*Starting in fall 2026, adult learners pursuing the Nursing, AAS (RN) degree may qualify for SUNY Reconnect even if they have a prior college degree.
Don't see the program you're interested in? SUNY Canton has many ways for students to earn any of our degrees affordably with financial aid and Excelsior scholarships. Reach out to Admissions to learn more at admissions@canton.edu. View all programs.
Adult Learners Share Their SUNY Canton Journey
Frequently Asked Questions
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 currently hold a college degree. At SUNY Canton, the program helps adult learners complete a two-year degree in high-demand fields such as healthcare, information technology, and renewable energy.
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 a certificate and want to continue to an associate degree. Am I eligible?
Yes. Students who have not earned a degree are eligible.
What is not covered?
The program does not cover:
- Housing or meal plans
- Parking or late fees
- Transportation or childcare
- Non-academic expenses
Can I attend SUNY Canton part-time?
Yes. You must take at least 6 credits per semester and complete their degree within 10 semesters. SUNY Canton provides flexible scheduling, including online options.
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.
What if I change my major or stop attending SUNY Canton?
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.
Do I still need to apply for FAFSA and TAP?
Yes. All students must complete the FAFSA and TAP, 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.
Will SUNY Canton accept my previous college credits or professional service?
SUNY Canton reviews prior transcripts and military training for transfer and prior learning credit. View our Prior Learning Assessment website or speak with an Admissions Counselor to explore your options.
For further details please visit SUNY’s Reconnect FAQ page.