High-quality Degrees for Free
If you’re interested in returning to college or pursuing your education for the first time, look to Guttman Community College’s free programs in Information Technology and Health Information Technology to help you reach your goals.
Eligible Programs
Are You Eligible?
I. Complete a CUNY Admissions Application
To be considered for this program, please complete the CUNY application.
II. Aged 25–55
You may apply if you are between ages 25 and 55 as of January 1 of the semester.
III. New York State Resident
You must be a New York State resident or eligible for in-state tuition.
IV. Enroll in an Eligible Program
You are planning to study full-time (12+ credits) or part-time (minimum of 6 credits) in an eligible program of study. See eligible programs above.
V. No Prior Degree
You have no prior postsecondary degree. (In other words, you have never earned a college degree.)
VI. Apply for Financial Aid
You must file FAFSA and apply for NYS TAP or the NYS DREAM Act, if eligible.
How To Get Started
- Apply to Guttman via the CUNY application
- Choose one of the two approved majors
- Submit your financial aid forms
Your application will be checked automatically — no extra steps needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
I. Am I Eligible for Free Community College?
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 Guttman Community College
II. Who can join this program? Only new students?
No, both new and current Guttman students can join! As long as you’re enrolled in an approved degree program, you may be eligible to participate.
III. I already have college credits. Will they count toward my degree?
Yes! Guttman and CUNY want to make sure you get credit for the work you’ve already done. Your previous college transcripts will be reviewed, and eligible credits will transfer to help you stay on track.
IV. I finished a certificate program. Can I continue with an associate degree?
Yes! If you haven’t already earned a degree, you can move from a certificate to an associate degree and still qualify for the program.
V. Can I attend part-time? How long do I have to finish my degree?
Yes, you can attend either full-time or part-time. To stay eligible, you must:
- Take at least six credits per semester
- Finish your degree within 10 semesters (about five years if part-time)
VI. What happens if I need to take a break from school?
Life happens — and we get that. You can take up to one full academic year off and still return to the program. If you need more time away for special reasons (like medical leave or military service), we’ll work with you on that.
VII. What if my major isn't approved? Can I still join?
- Only students in approved majors can participate. But don’t worry — our advisors will help you explore your options and see if switching to an approved major makes sense for you.
- To qualify, you must be between 25 and 55 years old on the first day of the semester. If you’re still 24 when classes begin, you’ll need to wait until the next semester to join.
VIII. What if I turn 56 while I’m still working on my degree? Will I lose support?
No worries! As long as you start the program before you turn 56, you can stay in it until you finish your degree — just make sure you complete it within the allowed timeframe.
VIIII. Do I need to keep a certain GPA or academic standing?
Yes. You’ll need to stay in good academic standing based on Guttman’s policies and any requirements of your program. Our team is here to support you if you need help staying on track!
IX. Do I have to live or work in New York State after I graduate?
There are no post-graduation, residency or work requirements tied to this program.
X. I live in NYC — can I apply to Guttman for this program?
Yes! If you’re a New York State resident, you can apply to Guttman Community College and join the NYS Opportunity Program at Guttman.
Request More Information
Why Free Community College?
NYS Opportunity Promise (NYSOP), through CUNY Reconnect, is designed to help students like you — individuals who may have paused their education or faced barriers — reconnect with college and complete their degrees. At Guttman, we believe in second chances and fresh starts.
Through this program, eligible students* receive access to:
- Academic Support & Personalized Advising
- Tutoring & Study Skills Development
- Financial Assistance & Book Vouchers
- Career Readiness & Transfer Planning
- Community-building Events & Leadership Opportunities
*If eligible, this program would cover tuition, fees, and books for NYS resident adult learners, ages 25-55, who have never earned a degree.