The Excelsior Scholarship Program 2026, managed by the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), provides eligible students with the opportunity to attend public colleges in New York State without paying tuition.
This initiative is aimed at supporting middle-income families by covering tuition costs after other financial aid has been applied. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can complete your undergraduate degree at little to no tuition cost.
This guide explains everything you need to know, including eligibility, benefits, required documents, and how to apply.
Excelsior Scholarship Program Summary
- Host Country: United States
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: United States of America
- Reward: Full Tuition Coverage
- No Essay Required
- Application Opens: May 2026
Details of Excelsior Scholarship Program 2026
The Excelsior Scholarship allows eligible students to study tuition-free at public institutions in New York State.
It applies specifically to schools within the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY) systems.
The scholarship works as a “last-dollar” award, meaning it covers any remaining tuition costs after other forms of financial aid—such as federal grants or state-based assistance—have been applied.
Eligibility Requirements for 2026 Excelsior Scholarship Program (SUNY/CUNY)
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Be a resident of New York State for at least 12 months prior to applying
- Have a household federal adjusted gross income of $125,000 or less
- Be enrolled in a SUNY or CUNY institution
- Take at least 12 credits per semester
- Complete at least 30 credits per academic year
- Be on track to complete their degree on time:
- 2 years for an associate degree
- 4 years for a bachelor’s degree
Residency Requirement After Graduation:
Recipients must live and work in New York State for the same number of years they received the scholarship. Failure to meet this condition may result in the award being converted into a loan.
Benefits of Excelsior Scholarship Program 2026
The programme offers:
- Full tuition coverage at SUNY and CUNY institutions
- Access to quality public education in New York State
- Support for students from middle-income households
- Renewable funding for up to:
- 4 years (bachelor’s degree)
- 5 years (for approved extended programmes)
How to Apply for Excelsior Scholarship Program 2026 (Step by Step)
- Complete FAFSA
Submit your FAFSA application to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. - Apply for TAP (Tuition Assistance Program)
Complete the New York State TAP application for state-level financial aid. - Submit Excelsior Scholarship Application
Apply online through the official HESC portal when applications open. - Track Your Application
Monitor your application status and respond promptly to any additional requests or updates.