The Peru Gazette

PLATTSBURGH — As the State University of New York expands its Military Tuition Rate Program this year, Clinton Community College is reaffirming its commitment to providing eligible military students with an affordable, accessible pathway to higher education.

Earlier this year, Clinton joined the SUNY Military Tuition Rate initiative, which ensures tuition charged to eligible students does not exceed the federal Military Tuition Assistance rate of $250 per credit hour. Clinton has consistently maintained tuition rates below that threshold for military students.

Historically, the federal Military Tuition Assistance benefit, currently capped at $250 per credit hour, has often left service members responsible for covering the difference between the benefit and a college’s tuition rate. The SUNY initiative helps eliminate that gap by aligning eligible tuition costs with the federal benefit.

The military tuition rate is available to active-duty service members, members of the National Guard and members of the Reserves who enroll at Clinton Community College. Eligible students may take courses either in person or online.

“Supporting those who serve our country is a responsibility we take seriously,” said Clinton Community College President Ken Knelly. “We are proud to help military students pursue their educational goals without taking on additional financial burdens.”

The college has long focused on affordability and student success, ensuring military-affiliated students have access to flexible learning options and support services while balancing the demands of military service and education.

“We work to meet students where they are,” Knelly said. “Military students bring valuable leadership, discipline and real-world experience to our classrooms, and we are honored to support them on their educational journeys.”

“SUNY’s Military Tuition Rate program has removed barriers for our servicemembers and ensured that cost does not prevent them from pursuing the education of their dreams,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. “With the expansion of this program, even more military-connected students will build their future at SUNY and be able to access an affordable, excellent education at any SUNY campus they choose. We are proud to support our military students at every stage of their academic journey.”

As of fall 2025, approximately 6% of the student population pursuing associate degrees at Clinton Community College were military-affiliated.