Excelsior Scholarship application open for new applicants for spring 2024

SUNY, CUNY students whose families make up to $125,000 annually can apply for tuition-free college

√ Applications accepted through Feb. 2, 2024

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the application for the Excelsior Scholarship for new applicants for the spring 2024 term is now open here. Students eligible for the Excelsior Scholarship under the Senator José Peralta New York State DREAM Act can apply here. The Excelsior Scholarship, in combination with other student financial aid, allows eligible full-time students to attend a SUNY or CUNY two-year or four-year college tuition-free.

“The Excelsior Scholarship is a game-changer for students across New York state who might not have the financial means to pursue higher education,” Hochul said. “This program is making college more affordable and accessible for low- and middle-income families, giving them the opportunity to obtain their college degree. By investing in our future workforce, we are investing in our economy and ensuring a strong and prosperous future for all New Yorkers."

Students from households with federal adjusted gross incomes up to $125,000 are eligible for a spring Excelsior Scholarship award. Students must also:

√ Plan to attend a SUNY or CUNY two- or four-year college;

√ Complete 30 credits per year toward their program of study (including summer and winter terms); and

√ Be on track to graduate with an associate degree in two years or a bachelor's degree in four years.

New York State Higher Education Services Corp. President Dr. Guillermo Linares said, "I applaud Gov. Hochul for her continued commitment to expanding access to education and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to obtain a college degree. With this program's continued implementation, we are breaking down barriers so more low and middle-income students can benefit from a quality education, opening doors to more job opportunities, enhancing socioeconomic mobility, and fostering a more inclusive society.”

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, "There is a place at SUNY for everyone and, every year, the Excelsior Scholarship, along with New York state's Tuition Assistance Program, help make college a reality for more New Yorkers. Excelsior and TAP contribute to help 53% of in-state SUNY students attend tuition-free, and so many SUNY students graduate with little to no debt. SUNY offers an exemplary education at a great value thanks to the support of Gov. Kathy Hochul and the legislators who so consistently champion this scholarship and others like it."

New York State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “Eliminating barriers to higher education is vital to create an equitable playing field for all New Yorkers. The Excelsior Scholarship is another tool for students and families, making college more affordable and accessible, putting them on their best paths to success.”

The spring 2024 Excelsior Scholarship application is open to first-time students entering college in the spring 2024 term and current college students who have never received the Excelsior Scholarship. Students currently receiving an Excelsior Scholarship do not need to complete this application to receive continued award payments.

New York’s investment in student financial aid, including TAP and Excelsior Scholarships, helped over 180,000 New York residents. Fifty eight percent of full-time resident undergraduate students attended SUNY and CUNY tuition-free in 2022, including 53% at SUNY state-operated campuses and 67% at CUNY colleges.

Applications will be accepted through Feb. 2, 2024.