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Free college for "Senior citizens"
#1
Hi.  So I'm trying to lay out education plans and my fiance says you know there are a lot of free classes at age 60.  That's 3 years away for me!  Age varies by state:
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-...s-by-state 
 
Some aren't free (and/or you pay for books/other fees) if trying for credit.  There seem to be some private colleges that offer discounts (much harder to search but they exist).

If there's any more info, please add to the thread.  Hope this helps with older folks' planning Smile
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#2
You know, that's what I was thinking, saving up my doctoral studies when I retire... actually, I wanted to do a triple doctoral studies then... we'll just have to wait another decade or so before I start those. In the meantime, I'll do the cheapies from the Level 8 and top up from there, or some that are 'partnered' with course providers...
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#3
I think we’ve had a thread on these before. I know in my area, the free senior courses are non credit, but it varies by state, of course.

Here’s the previous thread. https://www.degreeforum.net/mybb/Thread-...or+citizen
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#4
(07-04-2024, 09:17 PM)Vle045 Wrote: I think we’ve had a thread on these before.  I know in my area, the free senior courses are non credit, but it varies by state, of course.

Here’s the previous thread. https://www.degreeforum.net/mybb/Thread-...or+citizen

I think that is the case in Virginia. The tuition waiver is for audit, non credit courses, on a space available basis. I like that. Learning for learning's sake. I am past the point of trying to collect more credentials. My hands are full right now with my University of Chicago Graham School courses. Perhaps at some future date I will investigate auditing  courses at the University of Virginia, and or William and Mary. Big Grin
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#5
Thanks all. So many variables-we just have to check our respective states (and private/foreign colleges worth a look too-there's something called Erasmus +60 but appears to be for European citizens)
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#6
Georgia:

62 and Older Program
Information for Future Students
Georgia residents who are aged 62 and older may be eligible to take courses on a space available basis at little or no cost. Additional information can be found in Board of Regents Policy 4.2.1.5, Persons Aged 62 and Older. Students who are interested in this program should contact their college or university of interest for additional information.

Undergraduate and Graduate

Each college has their own thing whether it is all free or if there are a few student fees involved, I believe it is all credit degrees issued not noncredit ones.
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#7
In Illinois anyone old enough to qualify for Medicare qualifies for free undergrad tuition at the public state schools and community colleges.

However, I have never seen proof one way or another if this extends to graduate or doctoral work...or not.
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#8
(07-05-2024, 08:14 AM)Charles Fout Wrote:
(07-04-2024, 09:17 PM)Vle045 Wrote: I think we’ve had a thread on these before.  I know in my area, the free senior courses are non credit, but it varies by state, of course.

Here’s the previous thread. https://www.degreeforum.net/mybb/Thread-...or+citizen

I think that is the case in Virginia. The tuition waiver is for audit, non credit courses, on a space available basis. I like that. Learning for learning's sake. I am past the point of trying to collect more credentials. My hands are full right now with my University of Chicago Graham School courses. Perhaps at some future date I will investigate auditing  courses at the University of Virginia, and or William and Mary. Big Grin

So now I'm a University of Virginia Community Scholar. Upon professor approval, I will soon be auditing a class of great interest to me. Big Grin
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#9
Free college for "Senior citizens"?

I find this very, very disturbing.

Not, because someone is getting courses that are free.

I turned 60 a few days ago.

So, now I am now a "Senior Citizen"?

Why didn't someone tell me?

One day I am an active scholar and next an old scholar.

Not sure I would audit courses.

I still plan to do full-time volunteer work after I retire in fields like Mental Health.

Might still need good credentials.

So, are you tired yet of hearing an old guy ramble on?

Too bad, I think my right to do that is in the Constitution.
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