Now Open: Apply for the Math and Science Teaching Initiative Scholarship

New York State Higher Education Services Corporation Announces the Opening of the NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program Application for the 2025-26 Academic Year
Scholarship Program Provides Financial Support to Aspiring Math and Science Teachers to Strengthen New York’s Education Workforce
HESC Offers Additional Support During Financial Aid Awareness Month, Encouraging Students to Take Advantage of Available Resources

Albany, NY – April 18, 2025 – The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) today announced that applications are now open for the NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program for the 2025-26 academic year. This program provides scholarships covering the cost of tuition for full-time undergraduate and graduate students who commit to teaching math or science in secondary education (grades 7-12) in New York State.

The NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program was created to meet the growing need for skilled educators in these vital subject areas across the state. By supporting students who pursue careers in teaching, the program plays a vital role in ensuring that New York classrooms are staffed with highly skilled educators who can prepare students for success in STEM fields.

New York State Higher Education Services Corporation President Dr. Guillermo Linares said, “New York’s future depends on our ability to attract and retain talented educators in math and science. This scholarship not only eases the financial burden for students pursuing teaching careers but also strengthens our education system by ensuring students have access to high-quality instruction in these essential subjects.”

This announcement comes during Financial Aid Awareness Month in New York State. Financial Aid Awareness Month highlights the importance of financial aid in making higher education accessible to all eligible New Yorkers and ensures students and families have the resources they need to pursue education and career opportunities.

To support this initiative, HESC is hosting a series of events to assist students and families in completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) applications and learn about all the financial aid options available to them. For more details on HESC events and financial aid resources, visit HESC Events.

New York State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “A student’s success is largely determined by the quality of their teachers, and in today’s world of rapidly advancing knowledge, highly qualified math and science educators are more essential than ever. The New York State Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program will help to ensure that the students across our state have access to the expert instructors they’ll need to thrive in an ever-evolving world.”

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, "SUNY is proud to be the largest educator of future teachers in New York State, and we are committed to preparing those who will educate and empower the next generation of students. As a former public school educator whose life was profoundly impacted by education, I’ve seen firsthand how investing in teachers is investing in the future, and I am grateful to the Governor for committing to the Masters in Education Teaching Incentive Scholarship each year.”

CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez said, “The NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program is a critical investment in our state’s educational system and future workforce. Supporting aspiring educators is key to preparing the next generation of STEM innovators and leaders. As a University system that educates nearly a quarter of New York State’s teachers, we are grateful to Governor Hochul and our partners at HESC for ensuring that talented and passionate students will get the support they need to move into a field that eagerly awaits them.”

Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities President Lola W. Brabham said, “New York’s independent colleges and universities are proud to partner in preparing the next generation of educators. Programs like the NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Scholarship are essential to building a strong, well-prepared teaching workforce and ensuring all students have access to high-quality instruction in STEM fields. By reducing financial barriers for aspiring teachers, New York is making a vital investment in both education and equity.”

New York's Association of Private Colleges President Donna Stelling-Gurnett said, "The NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program is a win-win for aspiring educators and the next generation of STEM learners in New York State. Whether in Financial Aid Awareness Month or otherwise, APC is committed to working with our partners to highlight essential programming and financial aid opportunities that help students achieve their higher education and career goals."

Eligible students enrolled in an approved undergraduate or graduate program may apply for the NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program. Students who do not meet the program citizenship and residency requirements may apply through the New York State DREAM Act. Scholarship recipients must agree to teach math or science in a secondary school in New York State for at least five years, beginning within two years of completing their degree program and receiving initial certification.

The application deadline is May 13, 2025.

Visit the NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program webpage for more information and to apply.

HESC is also accepting applications for additional programs to support students pursuing their academic goals, including the NYS STEM Incentive Program and Masters in Education Teacher Incentive Scholarship.

The STEM provides tuition scholarships for students attending a SUNY or CUNY who are in the top 10% of their high school class and pursuing an approved STEM program. Recipients must work in a STEM field in New York State for five years after graduation.

The deadline to apply is August 15, 2025. For more information on eligibility and to apply, visit the program's webpage.

The NYS Masters in Education Teacher Incentive Scholarship covers full SUNY or CUNY tuition for students pursuing a master’s degree in education. Recipients must agree to teach in New York State for at least five years after graduation.

The deadline to apply is May 16, 2025. For more information on eligibility and to apply, visit the program's webpage.