New Yorkers can attend state colleges for free: how to apply

The deadline to apply for college scholarships to New York City is quickly approaching. According to Silive, Governor Kathy Hochul is urging students to act quickly to take advantage of this opportunity in the spring 2024 semester.

The state scholarship program offers free tuition to students at the City University of New York (CUNY) and State University of New York (SUNY). Applications for participation in the program are accepted until February 1.

Scholarship Applications Excelsior scholarship are open for the spring 2024 semester and are available to students new to the university as well as those who have not previously received a scholarship. They must live in a household whose income does not exceed $125 per year, the governor announced in December 000.

The scholarship allows eligible state residents the opportunity to attend college for free, filling the tuition gap after receiving federal and state financial aid.

Thanks to New York State's college funding programs, more than 2021 students received state financial aid in the 2022-263 school year. This number includes approximately 000 students who attended SUNY or CUNY colleges without paying tuition through the Excelsior Scholarship.

Equal rights for everyone

“The Excelsior Scholarship is a game-changer for New York State students who lack the financial means to pursue higher education,” Hochul said. “This program makes college more affordable for low- and moderate-income families.” It gives them the opportunity to receive higher education. By investing in our future workforce, we are investing in our economy and ensuring a strong and prosperous future for all New Yorkers.”

On the subject: New Yorkers can attend community colleges for free: all the features of the Excelsior Scholarship

In addition to family income requirements, first-time college students must also plan to attend a SUNY or CUNY college, earn an associate's or bachelor's degree, and complete 30 credits per year in their program of study.

“The Excelsior Scholarship has enabled thousands of CUNY students to attend college without paying tuition,” said CUNY Chancellor Felix Matos Rodriguez. “Since its inception, the program has become an important asset to our historic mission to open doors to educational attainment, career success and upward mobility for New Yorkers of all backgrounds. We thank Governor Hochul for her continued support of the Excelsior program. We encourage all eligible students to apply for the scholarship.”