Free Community College Tuition & Free CT Museum Tuition for Kids

July 12, 2021
Applications are now being accepted for Connecticut’s free community college program. The deadline for the upcoming school year is this Thursday, July 15.

Pledge to Advance Connecticut (PACT) was established by the legislature in 2019 to provide free tuition for students attending all twelve community colleges. PACT bridges the tuition gap students may have after receiving scholarships and other financial aid – and we allocated funds for this critical program in our new state budget.
 
Don't delay! Students must apply by this Thursday, July 15, to take advantage of PACT. Funds are available on a first come, first served basis.
 
To qualify for PACT, applicants must meet the following requirements: 

  • Be a graduate of a public or private Connecticut high school (GED and home-schooled students qualify).
  • Be a first-time college student (those who participated in dual enrollment programs while in high school are not excluded).
  • Complete the FAFSA and accept all awards.
  • Attend community college full-time (12 or more credits per semester).
  • Enroll in classes today for first come, first served consideration.
  • Participate in a degree or credit-bearing certificate program.
  • Once enrolled, remain in good academic standing.

Students from all financial backgrounds are eligible.
 
To get started, click here:

Apply Here
PACT is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning grants cover any expenses remaining after students have exhausted federal, state and institutional financial aid opportunities. In fact, even students who have all their tuition and fees covered by financial aid are eligible for at least $250 per semester.
 
Still have questions? Click here for the PACT Manual.
 
We are fulfilling our promise of tuition-free community college because everyone deserves a quality education that can put students on the path to success.

Free Youth Admission to CT Museums
The past year was very difficult for families across Connecticut as children and parents both navigated remote learning, new childcare demands, and social distancing measures. As our communities re-open, Connecticut has launched several summer enrichment initiatives to provide children with fun and educational opportunities that capitalize on the outstanding resources throughout our state.

Beginning July 1st through September 6th all children—plus one accompanying adult will receive free admission to over 90 museums across Connecticut. This program is offered to all Connecticut children, ages 18 and under.
 
This initiative will be available at museums, science centers, aquariums, and historical landmarks across the state. Participating centers include the Connecticut Science Center, Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Mystic Aquarium, and Mystic Seaport Museum. Click below to view the full list of participants. 

CT Summer at the Museum
I hope you and your kids take time to explore all our state has to offer this summer!