Advice Independent Living

How Connecticut Seniors Can Take College Classes for Free

Photo of the cscu pact logo and a senior man looking at a laptop

Challenging yourself intellectually is as important to your well-being as getting regular exercise. Learning new skills and engaging in stimulating cerebral activities is known to slow down age-related cognitive decline. There’s even some evidence that higher education is associated with a lower risk of dementia.

In addition to keeping your mind sharp, learning something new and interesting helps boost your mood, improves self-esteem and contributes to a more positive attitude. In other words, it feels good to feel smart.

Taking a college class is an obvious way to challenge yourself intellectually. And thanks to the Connecticut tuition-waiver program for state residents 62 and older and the Pledge to Advance Connecticut (PACT) program, it won’t cost much, if anything, to enroll. There are, however, a few caveats.

Typically, you can join a college class tuition-free only when space is available, and some classes require the permission of the instructor. You’ll also have to pay for books and any applicable activity fees. But that’s a small price to pay for the opportunity to pursue a degree, pick up a new job skill or dive into a subject you’re curious about.

Learn More about Tuition-Free Classes for Seniors

Whether you’re looking to simply audit a class or add a few letters after your name, the best way to learn more about free college classes is to visit the school’s website or contact their admissions office. A list of Connecticut state university and community college websites and phone numbers can be found here.

College Classes at Meadow Ridge

Norwalk Community College offers three classes each semester for residents at Meadow Ridge. The classes are held on-site at Meadow Ridge and are always well attended.

As you’ll discover, a love of learning is something Meadow Ridge residents enthusiastically share, whether it’s in a classroom, on a nature hike, or on an outing to a historic site. To learn more about what keeps Meadow Ridge residents mentally sharp and intellectually curious, visit the Independent Living page of our website or contact us. We’re always happy to help you learn more about your senior living options.

Independent Living
Senior Living Lifestyle, Senior Living Tips
Engage in intellectually stimulating activities, groups and classes.