The Excelsior Scholarship, which allows eligible students full-time to attend a tuition-free SUNY or CUNY two- or four-year university, is now open for the 2023-2024 academic year.
The announcement was made by Governor Kathy Hochul and highlighted the opportunity for young applicants to one of the most promising educational programs in New York State. The scholarship is administered by the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation.
“The Excelsior Scholarship provides access to an affordable college education to thousands of low- and middle-income New Yorkers,” said Governor Hochul. “At a time when economic disparities are widening, it is more important than ever that every student have access to the resources they need to succeed. I encourage everyone who is interested to apply for this critical program that will help countless New Yorkers move up the ladder. of success”.
Students from households with a gross income of up to $125,000 are eligible for an Excelsior Scholarship and among the points to receive them are:
- Plan to attend a SUNY or CUNY two- or four-year college
- Complete 30 credits per year for your study program (including summer and winter terms); and be on track to graduate with an associate’s degree in two years or a bachelor’s degree in four years.
affordable colleges
The Excelsior Scholarship is just one of the many ways New York State makes college affordable. Thanks to New York State’s generous higher education funding programs, in 2021-22, more than 263,000 students received state financial aid, including approximately 30,000 youth who attended a SUNY or CUNY college tuition-free thanks to the Excelsior Scholarship. Visit the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation website to explore other options available to help pay for college.
The link for more information is: https://www.hesc.ny.gov/excelsior
The 2023-2024 Excelsior Scholarship application is open to students entering college for the first time in the fall 2023 term and to 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 ongoing award payments. New York State Senator José Peralta’s DREAM Act eligible students may also apply.
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation President Dr. Guillermo Linares said, “The Excelsior Scholarship is a testament to New York’s commitment to making college more accessible to all students, regardless of age. of his financial background. Giving more New Yorkers the opportunity to pursue college is an important step in ensuring that all students have a chance to succeed. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to help students reach their potential through this program.”
“The Excelsior scholarship program has opened the doors of education and opportunity for thousands of CUNY students by allowing those who qualify to attend college tuition-free. Excelsior has become an important part of CUNY’s mission to provide pathways to career success and, ultimately, upward social and economic mobility. We thank Governor Hochul for her continued recognition of the unmatched value and importance of higher education for all New Yorkers,” CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez said for her.