Excelsior Scholarship: Tuition-Free NY Education

Hey there, future scholars! Are you dreaming of pursuing higher education without the burden of tuition fees? The Excelsior Scholarship is here to make that dream a reality. Imagine attending a SUNY or CUNY college without worrying about tuition costs. Intrigued? Let's dive into the details.

The Excelsior Advantages

Are you ready to seize the opportunity of a lifetime? The Excelsior Scholarship, combined with other student financial aid programs, paves the way for students to attend SUNY or CUNY colleges tuition-free. Yes, you heard that right – tuition-free! This incredible program covers eligible SUNY and CUNY students' tuition costs, lightening the financial load on students and their families.

Who's Eligible?

Now, let's talk eligibility. To be part of this educational revolution, you must meet a few criteria:

• 1. Be a New York State resident who has lived in the state for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the term's start.
• 2. Hold U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status.
• 3. Have a high school diploma from a U.S. institution, a high school equivalency diploma, or a federally approved "Ability to Benefit" test qualification.
• 4. Possess a combined federal adjusted gross income of $125,000 or less.
• 5. Be pursuing an undergraduate degree at a SUNY or CUNY college, including community colleges, Cornell University, and Alfred University.
• 6. Enroll in a minimum of 12 credits per term and successfully complete at least 30 credits each year, demonstrating your dedication to continuous study.
• 7. If you started college before the 2023-24 academic year, have earned a minimum of 30 credits per year towards your degree prior to applying.
• 8. Maintain a non-default status on any Scholarship Dreamers or federal education loan and comply with any previously received Scholarship Dreamers awards.
• 9. Commit to residing in New York State for the duration of the award and, if employed, work in the state.
• Click here if you do not meet the above eligibility requirements.

How to Apply

Getting started on your journey to tuition-free education is a breeze. Just keep these steps in mind:

• 1. Mark your calendar for the application deadline: August 31st, 2023, at the stroke of midnight.

• 2. Check your eligibility – remember, if you enrolled in college before 2020 (or 2019 for approved five-year or Opportunity Programs), this ship has sailed.
• 3. Ready to take the plunge? Head to our application portal and get started on your path to tuition freedom.
• 4. If you're not eligible for Excelsior, explore other opportunities available via Scholarship Dreamers at 
• SCHOLARSHIP DREAMERS (scholarshipsdreamsoffical.blogspot.com)

The Award Breakdown

Picture this: You're on campus, learning, growing, and your tuition expenses are shrinking. The Excelsior Scholarship bridges the tuition gap, covering any remaining expenses after federal and state grants and scholarships are applied, up to a generous $5,500.

How's that calculated, you ask? We take the charged tuition rate and deduct other financial aid awards, like the NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) or federal Pell grants. The Excelsior Scholarship then steps in, ensuring your tuition costs are kept in check. Even if your tuition surpasses your aid, worry not – a tuition credit will be applied to the balance.

Support Along the Way

Life happens, and we get that. If you're falling behind on credits needed for your degree, our Catching Up on Credits program has your back. For those pursuing an Associate's degree within two years or a Bachelor's degree within four, extra credits can bring you back on track. Successfully earn those credits, and you're back in the running for an Excelsior Scholarship.

Special Pathways

We're inclusive and understand everyone's journey is unique. If you're in Opportunity Programs or following a five-year undergraduate track, we've tailored the Excelsior Scholarship to accommodate your needs. You've got five years to complete your degree, and we're right there with you.

Accessibility Matters

We believe in equal opportunities for all. If you're a student with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, rest assured – accommodations are available. Your path to an Excelsior Scholarship might require a bit of extra planning, but your determination and commitment are what matter most.

Navigating Your Excelsior Journey

Questions about eligibility? The Income Eligibility Determination Form can provide answers, especially if your income is influenced by factors like disability, divorce, separation, or the loss of a parent or spouse. Don't hesitate to reach out – we're here to help.

And remember, life isn't always predictable. If you face challenges like the loss of an immediate family member, active military duty, or health-related issues, your eligibility might still stand. Our doors are open, and your school will collaborate with us to assess your situation.

A Glimpse into the Future

Excelsior Scholarship recipients can embrace up to two years of full-time study for an associate's degree or four years for a bachelor's degree. If your program typically takes five years, we've got you covered for five years too.

Your Responsibility

Keep the momentum going! File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the NYS Student Aid Payment Application annually to ensure those award payments keep flowing in.

Curious? Let's Chat!

Questions? We've got answers. Reach out to the Scholarship Unit at  excelsior@hesc.ny.gov.ny.gov, and we'll guide you through your Excelsior Scholarship journey.

Join the ranks of Excelsior Scholars – where dreams become degrees, and the future is within your grasp. Apply today and unlock a world of tuition-free possibilities.