October 9, 2026 — The cost of earning a college degree in the U.S. remains a significant financial challenge for many families and the average price increased in the 2026-2027 academic year over the prior year across both public and private colleges.
For the 2026 academic year, full-time undergraduate tuition at CUNY schools is $6,930 per year for four-year colleges and at SUNY schools is $7,070 per year for undergraduate state-operated campuses. There are programs to make those schools event more affordable.
FAFSA, TAP applications
The 2027–28 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) applications are now open. Applying early means you’ll know your aid eligibility sooner, have time to fix any errors, and give prospective colleges information to build your financial aid package.
Steps to Apply:
- Create your StudentAid.gov account.
- Complete your FAFSA.
- Use the state link at the end to complete your TAP application.
Need help completing your FAFSA or TAP? Attend a virtual FAFSA/TAP completion event.
Science, technology, engineering and math
The 2027-28 NYS STEM Incentive Program application is now open for NYS students who plan to attend a SUNY or CUNY college.
To be eligible, students must:
- Rank in the top 10 percent of their high school graduating class at a NYS high school. (HESC does not round class rank, a rank of 10.4% is not eligible).
- Apply in your high school senior year.
- Enroll in an undergraduate program in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics full-time.
- Commit to living and working in a STEM occupation in New York State for five years.
The application deadline for the 2027-2028 academic year is Aug. 15, 2027. To learn more and to apply, visit hesc.ny.gov/STEM.
Students who don’t meet citizenship or residency requirements may still qualify for New York State financial aid through alternate pathways, like the Senator José Peralta NYS DREAM Act or the Alternate Eligibility Path. Visit the Applying for Aid website to learn more.