ALBANY, NY (December 19, 2025) — Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that applications are now open for the Excelsior Scholarship for the spring 2026 semester, allowing eligible New York students to attend SUNY or CUNY colleges tuition-free.
The program targets students from families with adjusted combined federal household incomes of $125,000 or less. Eligible applicants must pursue a full-time undergraduate degree, complete at least 30 credits per year in an approved program and commit to living and working in New York State for a duration equal to the years the scholarship was received.
Students who qualify for federal aid must complete the FAFSA and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program application.
Applications will be accepted through Feb. 3, 2026.
“Each year, the Excelsior Scholarship helps transform the lives of tens of thousands of New York students by making tuition-free college a reality and strengthening affordability across the State,” Hochul said. “This program cements our commitment to ensuring every eligible student can earn a degree without the weight of debt. When we invest in our students, we invest in the families, communities and future of New York State.”
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation President Dr. Guillermo Linares said the program represents “a promise to New York’s students and families that their dreams of a college education are within reach.”
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. praised the scholarship for advancing “affordability and upward mobility” and empowering New Yorkers through college degrees.
The SUNY Board of Trustees commended Hochul, noting the scholarship empowers students and supports the state economy by requiring recipients to live and work in New York.
CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez called the Excelsior Scholarship “an important piece of CUNY’s commitment to affordability” and encouraged eligible students to apply.
Launched in 2017, the Excelsior Scholarship has enabled students to attend SUNY and CUNY institutions tuition-free, removing financial barriers for middle-class families and strengthening New York’s workforce.
For more information or to apply, visit hesc.ny.gov/excelsior.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.