NY Excelsior Scholarship (Tuition-Free)
Run by HESC / NY State, a state agency
Covers remaining tuition after TAP and Pell for full-time students at CUNY or SUNY whose family earns under $125,000/year. Returning recipients do not reapply, but must file the FAFSA and TAP each year.
- Award
- Tuition-free at CUNY/SUNY
- Deadline
- Set each year by HESC (2026-27 new applicants: August 31, 2026)
- Run by
- HESC / NY State
- State
Who it's for
- NY resident
- Family income ≤$125,000
- Full-time student at CUNY or SUNY
- Commit to living/working in NY after graduation
HESC / NY State decides who gets help.
How to apply
You apply on the program's own website. GrantLantern doesn't process applications. We link you straight to the source.
Apply at hesc.ny.govOpens in a new tab. GrantLantern is not affiliated with this program.
NY Excelsior Scholarship (Tuition-Free) is one option. What else may help?
Many households qualify for more than one program. Answer a few questions to see what else you may qualify for.
Check what I may qualify forFree. No account needed. Your answers are never sold or shared.
Where this comes from
Details are based on the program's official information. HESC / NY State decides who is eligible, not GrantLantern. Check current requirements on their site before you apply.