The Excelsior Scholarship Program, a groundbreaking opportunity for New York students, is set to open for applications in December 2024 for the Spring 2025 academic term. This program offers eligible students from families earning $125,000 or less the chance to attend a SUNY or CUNY college tuition-free. Below are the key details, including benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines.
Benefits of the Excelsior Scholarship 2025
- Full Tuition Coverage: Covers tuition expenses at state-operated SUNY or CUNY colleges after federal and NYS grants are applied.
- Last Dollar Scholarship: Bridges any remaining tuition costs after other scholarships, such as PELL or TAP, are utilized.
- Extended Duration:
- Up to 2 years for associate degree students.
- Up to 4 years for bachelor’s degree students.
- Up to 5 years for approved five-year programs.
- Special Provisions for Students with Disabilities: Flexibility to attend less than full-time or pause studies due to medical conditions while maintaining eligibility.
Eligibility Requirements
Income and Residency Criteria
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- Combined household income must not exceed $125,000.
- Must be a U.S. citizen, eligible non-citizen, or qualify under the NYS DREAM Act.
- Applicants must have been New York State residents for at least 12 continuous months before applying.
Academic Requirements
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- Must be pursuing an undergraduate degree at a SUNY or CUNY college.
- Enroll in full-time study (minimum of 12 credits per term) and complete 30 credits per year applicable toward the degree.
- Continuous enrollment is mandatory unless a documented exception (e.g., health condition or parental leave) applies.
Special Considerations
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- Students with disabilities can qualify for part-time study options.
- Undocumented and immigrant students must apply for eligibility under the NYS DREAM Act before submitting their Excelsior Scholarship application.
Application Process
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- FAFSA and TAP Application: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application, or the DREAM Act application if applicable https://www.hesc.ny.gov/find-aid/nys-grants-scholarships/excelsior-scholarship-program/.
- Excelsior Scholarship Application:
- Available starting December 2024 on the NYS Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) website.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Provide income verification, academic transcripts, and residency proof as required.
Deadline for Application Submission
The application window opens in December 2024 and will close as per your chosen college preference.
Post-Graduation Commitment: Recipients must agree to:
- Live and work in New York State for the same number of years they received the scholarship.
- If recipients move out of New York before fulfilling this requirement, the scholarship amount converts into a no-interest loan.