Summary
The Excelsior Scholarship for the academic year 2027 is available for both U.S. citizens and eligible non-U.S. students. This scholarship allows students attending college in New York to offset or eliminate their tuition costs, making higher education more accessible. Funded by the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), this initiative is vital for middle-class families aiming to achieve higher educational goals without financial burden
🎓 Excelsior Scholarship 2027: State-funded program in New York, USA for eligible US and international students to reduce or fully cover tuition costs at CUNY and SUNY schools.
💰 Financial Benefits:
Full tuition reimbursement at qualified SUNY & CUNY schools.
Reduced reliance on student debt.
Access to programs longer than standard two- and four-year tracks.
Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA) offers up to $6,000/year for private college students.
🏛 Administered by: Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), funded by New York State.
📚 Eligible Programs & Fields: Engineering, Computer Science, IT, Business, Finance, Economics, Education, Health Sciences, Nursing, Public Health, Biological Sciences, Environmental Studies, Math, Social Sciences, Arts & Humanities, Communication, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Data Science, Liberal Arts.
✅ Eligibility Criteria:
Household income ≤ $125,000/year.
Full-time enrollment at a SUNY/CUNY school (associate’s: 2 years, bachelor’s: 4 years).
Completion of at least 30 credits per year (including summer/winter sessions).
For ETA: Must live in NY ≥12 months, enroll in participating private colleges, agree to live/work in NY after graduation..
Designation
Excelsior Scholarship Recipient for Bachelor’s & Associate Programs
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered by | Governor of New York |
| Degree Level | Bachelor’s & Associate Programs |
| Coverage | Tuition assistance |
| Eligible Nationality | All Nationalities |
| Award Country | United States |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2026 |
Research Area
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Business Administration
- Finance
- Economics
- Education
- Health Sciences
- Nursing
- Public Health
- Biological Sciences
- Environmental Studies
- Mathematics
- Social Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Communication Studies
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Data Science
- Liberal Arts Programs
Location
Eligible schools include public institutions in New York such as:
- State University of New York (SUNY)
- City University of New York (CUNY)
Eligibility/Qualification
Excelsior Scholarship:
- Household income must be $125,000 or less annually.
- Must enroll in a two-year or four-year SUNY or CUNY school.
- Full-time enrollment is required.
- Completion of at least 30 credits per year (including summer and winter sessions).
- Must stay on track to graduate:
- Associate’s degree in two years.
- Bachelor’s degree in four years.
Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA):
- U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen.
- Must reside in New York State for a minimum of 12 months prior to studies.
- Enrollment in a participating private college in New York.
- Household income must not exceed $125,000.
- Commitment to complete a minimum of 30 credits per year.
- Agree to live and work in New York State for the same number of years as the award received.
Job Description
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, covering tuition at eligible institutions, thereby facilitating students’ academic pursuits without the burden of educational debt. Recipients will have access to extensive resources and programs available at participating higher education institutions.
How to Apply
- The application process is conducted online.
- Interested students must complete the online application before the deadline.
Last Date to Apply
31 August 2026
This scholarship presents an excellent opportunity for students seeking financial assistance to achieve their educational aspirations in New York. Make sure to check eligibility and apply timely!






