On Thursday, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced the opening of applications for the Excelsior Scholarship program, a financial aid initiative aimed at increasing college affordability for students attending the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY). This program is part of a broader effort by the state to alleviate the financial burdens of higher education, making it attainable for a greater number of families.
The application period for the Spring 2026 semester is currently open, targeting New York residents whose families earn up to 5,000. Eligible students intending to enroll full-time at either SUNY or CUNY institutions can seek tuition coverage, which is particularly beneficial as it helps bridge any funding gaps remaining after other financial aid has been considered. This initiative effectively allows qualifying students to attend college without incurring tuition costs, a significant step toward reducing student debt burdens.
Governor Hochul emphasized the transformative impact of the Excelsior Scholarship, stating, “Each year, the Excelsior Scholarship helps transform the lives of tens of thousands of New York students by making tuition-free college a reality and strengthening affordability across the State.” These sentiments reflect the administration’s belief that investing in education is a vital pathway to enhancing the state’s economy and the well-being of its communities.
To qualify for the Excelsior Scholarship, students must meet several specific criteria. Applicants are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) applications, as well as fulfill the following conditions:
1. The combined federal household income must be 5,000 or less.
2. Candidates must pursue a full-time undergraduate degree at a SUNY or CUNY institution.
3. Applicants must complete a minimum of 30 credits annually within their approved field of study.
4. Recipients are obligated to live and work in New York State for a period equivalent to the years they receive the scholarship.
The application deadline for the Spring 2026 term is February 3, 2026. The Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), which oversees the Excelsior Scholarship among other financial aid programs, plays a crucial role in distributing over 5 million in grants, scholarships, and loan forgiveness options annually, benefitting nearly 300,000 students each year.
Since its inception in 2017, the Excelsior Scholarship has significantly broadened access to higher education for middle-class families, fostering a more educated workforce that is essential for New York’s economic growth. As the program continues to evolve, it underscores the state’s commitment to ensuring that financial obstacles do not prevent students from pursuing their educational aspirations.