Excelsior Scholarship Program 2026 For Americans: How to Apply

Excelsior Scholarship Program

The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) has  announced applications for the 2026 Excelsior Scholarship Program.

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The Excelsior Scholarship Program offers full-fee study opportunities for New York residents and helps eligible students attend public colleges in New York without paying tuition.

As an Excelsior Scholar, you will study for a four-year degree program for free if you meet the combined federal household income of $125,000 or less.

In this post, the full details of the eligibility, benefits, timeline, and application procedure will be provided.


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Excelsior Scholarship Program Abstract

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Excelsior Scholarship Program Details

The Excelsior Scholarship Program provides tuition-free education to qualified students attending a SUNY or CUNY college

Selected candidates will study at the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY) for free for the entire duration of their chosen programs.

The scholarship is structured as a last-dollar award, meaning it covers remaining tuition costs after other financial aid—such as federal Pell Grants or New York State TAP awards—has been applied.

Excelsior Scholarship Program 2026 Benefits & Duration

Excelsior Scholarship Program 2026 Covers tuition expenses at a SUNY or CUNY college

  • Allows students to attend a state-operated SUNY or CUNY college tuition-free.
  • Is a “last dollar” scholarship. Any federal or NYS grants or scholarships, including PELL and TAP, are applied to tuition first and the Excelsior Scholarship covers any remaining tuition expenses.

  • 2 years for students pursuing their associate degree full-time

  • 4 years for students pursuing their bachelor’s degree full-time

  • 5 years for approved five-year degree programs

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Excelsior Scholarship Program Requirements

To be eligible for the Excelsior Scholarship Program, applicants must satisfy the following conditions:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or a Permanent Resident
  • Must be a resident of New York State
  • Must have lived in New York for at least 12 months prior to the term
  • Household federal adjusted gross income must not exceed $125,000
  • Must enroll in a SUNY or CUNY institution
  • Must take at least 12 credits per semester
  • Must complete 30 credits per academic year

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  • Must be on track to complete a degree on time:

    • 2 years (associate degree)
    • 4 years (bachelor’s degree)
  • One of the most important aspects of the Excelsior Scholarship is its residency obligation:
  • After graduation, you must live and work in New York State
  • The duration must match the number of years you received the scholarship

How To Apply for Excelsior Scholarship Program 2026

To apply for the Excelsior Scholarship Program 2026, follow the instructions we have outlined below; 

  • Read the information we have provided on this webpage and ensure your eligibility
  • Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine federal aid eligibility
  • Complete the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application.
  • Apply online through the HESC portal
  • Ensure all documentation is accurate and complete
  • Monitor your application status and respond to any additional requests promptly.

Begin your application by clicking on the button below.

Deadline: Applications are open by May


Click Here To Apply


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