Vermont's state college system is changing a policy that allows senior citizens to attend classes free of charge.
Currently Vermonters over 65 can take as many as two classes per semester free, for no credit, at any of the state colleges.
Beginning in the fall the classes for seniors will be half price and for credit. The age limit will also be dropped to 60.
State Colleges Chancellor Jeb Spaulding told trustees during a conference call that most recent numbers show about 78 seniors were taking free courses.
“But there are others who say, ‘I want to seek a degree', so they end up paying full price and they’re not too happy about it. This seems to be a good value for Vermonters that are age 60 and over,” Spaulding said.
The change could provide the financially-strapped college system with a little more revenue. Spaulding quoted figures that indicate the number of Vermonters over the age of 65 is going to increase dramatically in coming years.
Tuition for individual courses varies, but full tuition for a typical class at Community College of Vermont is roughly $800.
