New York Financial Aid & Scholarships

Discover comprehensive financial aid opportunities in New York, including innovative state programs like TAP and Excelsior that make college more affordable.

Major Financial Aid Programs

New York offers innovative state-funded financial aid programs alongside federal aid opportunities.

State Grant
Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)

New York's primary need-based grant program for state residents attending college in New York.

Up to $5,665/year
Award Amount
June 30 (priority: May 1)
Deadline

Eligibility:

  • New York resident
  • Demonstrated financial need
  • Full-time enrollment
  • Degree-seeking student
State Tuition Award
Excelsior Scholarship

Covers tuition at SUNY and CUNY schools for families earning up to $125,000 annually.

Free SUNY/CUNY tuition
Award Amount
July 31
Deadline

Eligibility:

  • Family income under $125,000
  • New York resident
  • SUNY/CUNY enrollment
  • Stay/work in NY commitment
State Grant
Enhanced Tuition Awards

Additional aid for private college students from families earning up to $80,000.

Up to $6,000/year
Award Amount
June 30
Deadline

Eligibility:

  • Family income under $80,000
  • New York resident
  • Private college in NY
  • Full-time enrollment
Federal Grant
Federal Pell Grant

Federal need-based grant that doesn't need to be repaid.

Up to $7,395/year
Award Amount
June 30 (FAFSA)
Deadline

Eligibility:

  • Financial need
  • U.S. citizen/eligible non-citizen
  • Undergraduate student

Understanding College Costs in New York

SUNY/CUNY Tuition

$7K-$10K

Annual tuition at New York public universities for in-state residents.

Living Expenses

$15K-$25K

Annual cost for housing, food, and living expenses (varies by location).

Private Colleges

$40K-$80K

Annual tuition at private universities and colleges in New York.

Scholarship Opportunities

Academic Merit

Scholarships based on academic achievement, test scores, and leadership.

Examples:

  • Regents Scholarships
  • Presidential Scholarships
  • Dean's Awards
New York-Specific

Major scholarships specifically for New York residents and students.

Examples:

  • NYS Higher Education Services Corporation
  • Empire State Diversity Honors
  • STEM Incentive Program
Professional Fields

Scholarships for students entering specific high-need professions.

Examples:

  • Teaching Scholarships
  • Nursing Scholarships
  • Law Enforcement Awards
Private Foundations

Private scholarships from foundations and organizations throughout New York.

Examples:

  • New York Community Trust
  • Local community foundations
  • Industry-specific awards

New York Financial Aid Tips

TAP & Excelsior Strategy

  • Complete FAFSA and TAP applications as early as possible
  • Understand Excelsior work/residence requirements
  • Consider SUNY/CUNY options for maximum aid
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress

Cost Management

  • Compare total costs including living expenses
  • Consider commuter options to reduce housing costs
  • Explore work-study and internship opportunities
  • Research private scholarship opportunities early

Continue Your New York College Planning Journey

Now that you understand financial aid options, let's explore the college application process.