CT’s Free Community College Expanded

Connecticut students can apply to attend community college tuition-free this fall through the Mary Ann Handley Award, a newly expanded program designed to bridge the gap between federal and state aid.

The program is named after the late Mary Ann Handley, a former Democratic state senator from Manchester and a history professor at the community college now called CT State Manchester. Handley was a strong advocate for the community college system and the opportunities it offers Connecticut residents for higher education.

This year, state policymakers expanded the initiative named for Handley by removing several restrictions like requirements that students maintain continuous enrollment or complete their program in 48 months in order to maintain eligibility. The updated program no longer requires that students graduate from a high school in Connecticut to enroll.

To be eligible for the 2024-2025 academic year, participants must be enrolled in a degree or credit-bearing certificate program for at least six credits at any of CT State’s 12 campuses. Students must be Connecticut residents who either graduated from high school, completed homeschool, or received a GED.

They must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and accept all awarded financial aid. The Mary Ann Handley Award is designed to cover tuition costs leftover after financial aid is applied.

CT State President John Maduko emphasized the program’s importance in a press release earlier this year.

“Connecticut’s dedication to offering one of the nation’s most comprehensive free tuition programs not only underscores a commitment to breaking down financial barriers but also recognizes the pivotal role education plays in driving our economy and increasing personal prosperity,” Maduko said.

Applicants wishing to enroll in the program can visit ctstate.edu/apply to begin the application process and complete the FAFSA at FAFSA.gov using CT State’s federal school code, 007635. There is no separate application for the free tuition benefit; eligible students will be automatically considered.

Posted by Hugh McQuaid