By Blake Jackson
Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) have announced the opening of applications for the spring 2025 Excelsior Scholarship. This scholarship allows eligible students to attend a State University of New York (SUNY) or City University of New York (CUNY) college or university tuition-free.
The Excelsior Scholarship is designed to make higher education more affordable and accessible to students across New York State. “The Excelsior Scholarship transforms lives by making higher education more affordable and accessible for students across New York State,” said Governor Hochul. “I encourage every eligible New Yorker to apply for this scholarship to pursue their higher education goals and build a brighter future for themselves, their family, and their community.”
To be eligible for the spring 2025 scholarship, applicants must meet specific requirements. These include having a combined federal household income of $125,000 or less, planning to enroll full-time in a SUNY or CUNY two- or four-year institution in the spring 2025 term, and agreeing to live and work in New York State for a period equal to the years they receive the scholarship.
Eligible students who are applying for federal aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) applications, or apply through the New York State DREAM Act. Students who have already submitted their FAFSA can access the TAP application through the New York State Aid link.
HESC President Dr. Guillermo Linares praised Governor Hochul’s commitment to investing in higher education, noting that the scholarship program is creating opportunities for students across New York. “There is a place at SUNY for every New Yorker, and we are committed to delivering an exceptional educational experience at an affordable price. With the invaluable support of the Excelsior Scholarship, New York State's Tuition Assistance Program, and other financial aid, 52% of in-state SUNY students attend one of our 64 institutions completely tuition-free. This is made possible through the incredible efforts of Governor Kathy Hochul and our legislative partners.” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr.
“As part of our efforts to help current and prospective students access financial aid by completing their FAFSA and TAP applications, we are also encouraging eligible students to apply for robust New York State opportunities like the Excelsior Scholarship, which has already enabled thousands of CUNY students to attend college tuition-free and provided a pathway for them to pursue and achieve their dreams. We thank Gov. Hochul for her strong commitment to keeping the many benefits of higher education accessible and attainable to all New Yorkers.” said CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez.
Applications for the spring 2025 Excelsior Scholarship will be accepted through February 2, 2025. More details and application instructions are available at hesc.ny.gov/excelsior.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: New York, Education