The coronavirus pandemic has turned all our lives upside down, and AFSCME members are working on the front lines keeping our communities safe and healthy.

In this difficult time, AFSCME stands ready to support you and your family any way we can. That's why we wanted to extend a limited-time opportunity for members and eligible family members to earn a FREE bachelor's degree.

Students who enroll in the AFSCME Bachelor's Degree Completion Program, in partnership with Central State University, in the summer 2020 term may complete their entire degree (through graduation) with no out-of-pocket cost, as long as they remain continuously enrolled.

Summer enrollment is open now and classes begin on May 18, so do not delay. Members may learn more about this limited time offer by calling 888-897-9671 or get started online at bachelorsdegree.afscme.org. Degrees are available in teacher education and business administration.

If you are unemployed, furloughed or laid off, don't worry – you and your eligible family members may still enroll.

We also want to remind you that AFSCME Free College, which already offers you an associate degree at no out-of-pocket cost through Eastern Gateway Community College, has many general education and technical courses that are transferable to other colleges and universities, including in-demand programs such as teacher education, programming and development, human resources and accounting. Enrollment for the June 1 session is now open. Interested students should complete an inquiry form, which can be found at the link below and follow the enrollment steps.

We are all in this together, but those of us in the AFSCME family can rely on each other for support. The AFSCME Free College program is one key part of that support during these difficult times.

Students must complete FAFSA and the financial aid process to be eligible for either program.