January 30, 2025 — Students beginning college in Spring 2025 from families with annual incomes of $125,000 or less may qualify for free tuition at state-operated SUNY or CUNY colleges through the Excelsior Scholarship.
“The Excelsior Scholarship is a game changer for students across New York State who might not have the financial means to pursue higher education,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a press release ahead of last year’s application period. “By investing in our future workforce, we are investing in our economy and ensuring a strong and prosperous future for all New Yorkers.”
The deadline for applications is Feb. 3, 2025.
To qualify, students must be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen and be a legal resident of New York State for at least 12 continuous months prior to applying. Students who don’t meet the residency criteria may still qualify through the NYS DREAM Act.
While in college, students must:
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- Work toward an undergraduate degree at a SUNY or CUNY college, including community colleges and the statutory colleges at Cornell University and Alfred University.
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- Be enrolled full-time, taking at least 12 credits per term, and complete a total of 30 credits each year toward their degree.
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- Maintain continuous enrollment.
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- Live and work in New York State for the same number of years they receive the scholarship.
If students previously attended college before Spring 2025, they must have completed at least 30 credits per year applicable toward their degree before applying.
For more information, visit the HESC Excelsior website or contact your school’s guidance counselor.