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Herkimer College
Free Associate Degrees for Adult Learners at Herkimer
- Flexible scheduling and online options to study while you work
- Earn a degree for a good-paying job in a growing industry
- Dedicated advising and personal support for adult learners
Who is eligible?
New Yorkers 25-55 years old without a college degree who enroll in an eligible full-time or part-time associate degree program. See FAQs for more details.
What does "free" mean?
The SUNY Reconnect program covers the cost of tuition, fees, books, and supplies after all other financial aid is applied. It does not cover housing.
The SUNY Reconnect program made the process so much less intimidating. From the first outreach email, I felt supported. They walked me through enrollment, connected me to my advisor, and made sure I understood my options. Without that extra encouragement, I am not sure I would have had the confidence to take that first step.
Shannon Willebrandt
Quality Assurance - Science
The program has supported me by allowing for a flexible schedule, that can work with my personal and professional schedule and needs.
Thomas Ellis
Quality Assurance - Science
It has been a great resource for me to be able to come to college because of the no cost education. Now that I have a family and job, it's harder to find those extras to help pay for schooling so this was the perfect opportunity for me.
Laura Delorme
Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
The SUNY Reconnect program has been amazing! Paying for college out of pocket was not an option, and the idea of taking out student loans was intimidating. The Reconnect Program has made it a no-brainer to go to school. Taking the financial aspect out of the equation was a huge motivator for me.
Savana Clark
Quality Assurance - Science
The SUNY Reconnect program motivated me to return to college because it offered financial support that covered anything not already paid for by Fafsa. Even though I didn't need to use extra funds, hearing that SUNY Reconnect could make college free gave me the confidence to take that first step and enroll.
Davina Samuels
Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
It gave me the confidence to take that first step back. Knowing that I was one of many adult learners.
Deaveon Brown
Health Services Management Technology
Financially, it's been a huge help to me. It also helped me go through & choose the school that I thought would be perfect for me.
John Fisher
Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
It being conditionally free has made a huge difference. That’s what made it possible for me to return.
Ana Castillo
Quality Assurance - Science
If it wasn’t for the SUNY Reconnect program I probably wouldn’t be in college at this moment. The main reason I never went to college was the cost and financial commitment. Being able to achieve a college degree through this program is the biggest support for someone that is struggling in career advancement.
Vishnu Balkarran
Quality Assurance - Science
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Am I eligible?
Eligible student requirements include:
- Resident of New York State or eligible for in-state tuition
- Between the ages of 25-55
- 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
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I already have some college credits – can those be counted towards my degree?
Upon submitting an official transcript from your prior college(s) to the Registrar's Office, your credits will be evaluated to determine if they apply to your new degree program at Herkimer County Community College. The College also offers a credit for prior learning policy through which students may be able to receive college credits for life and work experience.
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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.
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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.
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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.)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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What does the Opportunity Promise Scholarship (SUNY Reconnect) cover?
The program will cover tuition, fees, books, and supplies required for your specific degree program.
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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.
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What is not covered by the program?
Funding does not cover room and board/housing (where applicable); transportation; meal plans; other non-academic expenses.
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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.
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I'm already enrolled in ASAP – am I eligible for both?
Yes, students who meet all eligibility requirements and are also in the ASAP program can receive funding. Funding through NYS Opportunity Promise scholarship (SUNY Reconnect) will be applied after all other financial aid.
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What degree programs are eligible?
Eligible programs at Herkimer County Community College:
- Childhood Education A.S. (on campus)
- Computer and Network Security A.A.S. (on campus)
- Computer Science A.S. (on campus)
- Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics A.S. (on campus and online)
- Electrical Technology A.A.S. (on campus)
- Engineering Science A.S. (on campus)
- Health Professions A.S. (on campus)
- Physical Therapist Assistant A.A.S. (on campus)
- Quality Assurance - Science A.S. (on campus and online)
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There are summer courses offered in my desired program – are those covered?
Summer and winter term courses may be eligible. Check with Advisement to see what courses in your program can be included.