ALBANY, NY (June 7, 2026) — Governor Kathy Hochul announced the opening of applications for the Excelsior Scholarship for the 2026-27 academic year, providing tuition-free education for eligible SUNY and CUNY students. The scholarship is open to students whose families earn up to $125,000 annually.
Opportunity for Private College Students
In addition to public college students, those attending participating private colleges in New York State can apply for the Enhanced Tuition Award, which offers up to $6,000 in tuition assistance. Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of these programs in making higher education accessible and affordable. “Higher education should be a pathway to opportunity, not a source of financial strain,” Hochul said.
Eligibility Requirements
Students must enroll full-time, complete 30 credits per year, and meet residency and income criteria to qualify for these scholarships. The deadline for applications is August 31, 2026.
Continued Support
The Excelsior Scholarship and Enhanced Tuition Award have already benefited thousands, with $101 million in Excelsior awards distributed in the 2024-25 academic year. State officials and educational leaders praised the impact of these programs, highlighting their role in keeping students in New York and supporting their educational goals.
This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.
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