Over 60 Tuition-Free Degree Programs
Learn about available tuition-free degree programs for senior citizens over the age of 60, including eligibility requirements and institutions providing them.
Are you over 60 and contemplating going back to school? Did you know that older adults returning to college or considering going for the first time can take advantage of tuition-free degree programs?
Whether seeking undergraduate or graduate studies, many universities offer senior citizens opportunities to engage in lifelong learning.
Read on to discover accredited institutions with over 60 tuition-free degree programs, including eligibility requirements and frequently asked questions about earning them.
Top Colleges Offering Tuition-Free Degrees for Senior Citizens
<p>Here are five leading universities in the United States that provide tuition-free programs for individuals over 60 who want to finish their degree or embark on starting one.
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<h3 id="section---1.UniversityOfDelaware">1. University of Delaware</h3>
<p>The <a href="https://learn.org/browseby/company/University_of_Delaware.html">University of Delaware</a> is committed to lifelong learning and offers state residents 60 years or older free tuition when completing an undergraduate or graduate degree.
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<p>Students need to be at least 60 years old at the time of application and gain admission into their desired program to receive this free tuition benefit.
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<p>While tuition and mandatory fees are waived, the costs for textbooks, supplies, and other applicable charges are not.
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<h3 id="section---2.UniversityOfSouthCarolina">2. University of South Carolina</h3>
<p>The <a href="https://learn.org/browseby/company/University_of_South_Carolina.html">University of South Carolina</a> provides free tuition for senior citizens through its On Your Time Initiatives program. Some costs, such as technology and program fees, are not covered.
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<p>Individuals must be 60 or above and a resident of South Carolina for at least 12 months to be eligible.
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<p>Aspiring students of this program need to complete the necessary undergraduate or graduate applications and gain admission to the university. They must remain in good academic standing to continue their studies.
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<h3 id="section---3.MississippiStateUniversity">3. Mississippi State University</h3>
<p>Mississippi State University has a Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver Program for those seeking a degree in undergraduate or graduate studies.
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<p>Individuals 60 years of age or older can enroll in this tuition-free program for six credit hours a semester and no more than 18 credit hours over a calendar year.
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<p>Eligibility is on a first-come, first-served basis, per space availability. Students pursuing a degree must complete the appropriate application for admission or readmission and need course approvals from advisors.
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<h3 id="section---4.UniversityOfArkansas">4. University of Arkansas</h3>
<p>The University of Arkansas provides a Senior Citizen Fee Waiver for those aged 60 or above to participate in for-credit coursework toward earning an undergraduate or graduate degree.
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<p>Residents of Arkansas who are high school graduates can apply for admission to the university and take advantage of this tuition-free program.
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<p>Older learners can take desired courses based on space availability and must be at least 60 at the time of enrollment. It covers general student fees; however, textbooks, supplies, or other applicable costs are not included.
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<h3 id="section---5.UniversityOfVirginia">5. University of Virginia</h3>
<p>The <a href="https://learn.org/browseby/company/University_of_Virginia.html">University of Virginia</a> has a Senior Citizen Waiver Program for individuals aged 60 or older, where they can enroll tuition-free for academic credit.
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<p>Individuals are accepted to this program according to space availability following the admission of tuition-paying students. Exceptions are made for senior citizens who have completed 75% of their degree.
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<p>There are no limitations regarding the total number of classes taken per term or each semester. Fees for course materials and other applicable costs are excluded from this program.
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<h2 id="section---FAQsAboutTuitionFreeProgramsForAdultLearnersOver60">FAQs About Tuition-Free Programs For Adult Learners Over 60</h2>
<p>Discover more details regarding tuition-free degree programs for older learners with the following commonly asked questions.
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<h3 id="section---WhatAreTheBenefitsOfGoingToCollegeAt60">What Are The Benefits Of Going To College At 60?</h3>
<p>There are many benefits to pursuing a tuition-free degree program at the age of 60. For example, it provides personal enrichment and a way to stay active while gaining a sense of accomplishment.
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<p>Heading back to college at 60 can be worthwhile for those who want to advance their career skills or increase their knowledge in certain areas.
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<p>Older adults will find enrolling in college courses improves job prospects and earning potential and enhances retirement security.
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<p>Senior citizens already retired have more time to apply toward obtaining a degree. All these factors are beneficial and make it worth going to college at age 60 or older.
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<h3 id="section---CanSeniorCitizensGoToCollegeForFree">Can Senior Citizens Go To College For Free?</h3>
<p>Several colleges in the United States offer tuition-free degree programs for individuals over 60 years of age who are interested in either undergraduate or graduate studies and meet specific eligibility requirements.
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<p>Most free degree programs for older learners cover tuition and mandatory fees. However, the costs for textbooks, supplies, technology, and other applicable fees are usually excluded.
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<p>Many schools allow senior citizens to audit courses on a non-participatory basis. These are typically for non-degree-seeking students as they will not receive credit, but it still provides free education for older adults looking to upskill.
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<h3 id="section---WhoQualifiesForOver60TuitionFreeDegreePrograms">Who Qualifies For Over 60 Tuition-Free Degree Programs?</h3>
<p>Eligibility for tuition waiver programs for senior citizens varies depending on the state where you reside, which school is providing it, and the program you are enrolling in.
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<p>Typically, students must be state residents and at least 60 years of age to participate. It is necessary to complete the appropriate application forms and be admitted or readmitted to the university.
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<p>Space availability also plays a factor since tuition-paying students usually take precedence.
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<h2 id="section---FindOver60TuitionFreeDegreeProgramsToday">Find Over 60 Tuition-Free Degree Programs Today</h2>
<p>It is never too late to go to college and take advantage of learning something new. If you are an older adult considering pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, you should not let your age stop you.
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<p>Several over 60 tuition-free degree programs for senior citizens are available to help you reach your educational and career goals, and our list will help you find the ideal one today.</p>