NY Excelsior Scholarship — Tuition-Free College

Administered by New York State Higher Education Services Corp · hesc.ny.gov

Makes SUNY and CUNY tuition free for qualifying NY families. Fills the gap between Pell, TAP, and tuition — families earning up to $125,000 can qualify.

Eligibility requirements

✓NY resident
✓Family income below $125,000
✓Enrolled full-time at SUNY or CUNY
✓Must commit to live and work in NY for years equal to award years

Insider tip

The income limit is family income, not individual — a family of four earning $120,000 still qualifies. The 'live and work in NY' requirement is enforced, so plan accordingly.

How to apply

Apply directly on the official website. GrantLantern does not process applications — we link you directly to the source.

Apply at hesc.ny.gov →

Opens the official source. GrantLantern is not affiliated with this program.

Program details sourced from official government and agency websites. Eligibility is determined by the administering agency — not GrantLantern. Verify current requirements at the official source before applying.

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