Student Update - May 2025

Spring is in full swing, and so are the opportunities!

As the school year winds down, it’s the perfect time to plan ahead and take advantage of available financial aid opportunities to help you stay on track for college and beyond.

May Financial Aid Opportunities:

Excelsior Scholarship Application - Did you know with the Excelsior Scholarship, eligible New York State students can go to SUNY or CUNY tuition-free?
Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA) - Get help paying for a private college in New York with a scholarship designed to keep higher education within reach!
NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program - Love math or science and want to make a difference? The Math and Science Teaching Incentive Scholarship covers full tuition for students pursuing a degree at SUNY, CUNY, or a private college to become a math or science teacher for grades 7–12.
NYS Masters In Education Teacher Incentive Scholarship - Want to turn your passion for teaching into a powerful career? The Masters in Education Teacher Incentive Scholarship covers full tuition for students pursuing a master’s degree in education at a SUNY or CUNY college, helping you become a certified teacher in New York State.
Learn about all of New York State’s Financial Aid Offerings.

Reminders:

The TAP application for the 2024-25 academic year closes June 30, 2025.
If you haven’t submitted your 2025-26 FAFSA and NYS TAP application, to maximize your financial aid opportunities.
Those eligible for NYS financial aid through the DREAM Act can submit their TAP application through the NYS DREAM Act portal.

Upcoming Virtual Events to Help Support Your College Financial Aid Journey:

Understanding Financial Aid Offers:
May 1, 2025 from 5:00-6:00p
Worried about how to pay for college without jeopardizing your family's financial future? This webinar will walk you through how to read and understand financial aid award letters, so you know exactly what’s free money, what’s a loan, and what’s just an estimate.
DREAM Act Support Session:
 May 12, 2025 from 5:00p – 7:30p
Students can get one-on-one assistance with their DREAM Act financial aid application. Drop in anytime during session hours for secure, personalized support. 
Excelsior Scholarship and Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA):
May 12, 2025 at 6:00p 
A world-class education doesn’t have to break the bank!
The Excelsior Scholarship and Enhanced Tuition Award are two of New York State’s biggest tuition support programs—and they could help cover your SUNY or CUNY tuition. We’ll walk you through who’s eligible, how to apply, and what deadlines you need to know. If you’re looking to make college more affordable, this session is the place to start.
On Campus and Ready to Begin the Semester:
May 14, 2025 at 6:00p & May 28, 2025 at 6:00p
College is more than classes—it’s a whole new world, and we’ll help you navigate it from day one! This session is your go-to guide for everything waiting for you on campus—from orientation and student support services to landing a part-time job and joining student organizations.
STEM Incentive Presentation:
May 19, 2025 at 6:00p 
What if your passion for STEM could pay for college?
Join us for a fast, eye-opening session that could unlock full tuition at a SUNY or CUNY school.
College Financial Aid for Veterans and their Dependents:
May 21, 2025 at 6:00p 
Are You a Student from a Military Family? Don’t Miss This Event!
Learn how your family’s service can help fund your future! In this virtual session, you’ll explore college financial aid options available to veterans, their spouses, and dependents—like you. Find out how these benefits can make college more affordable and get the latest updates on important changes to the Veteran Tuition Award, taking effect July 1, 2025.
See a full list of upcoming events on the HESC events page.

Stay Connected
Students and their families can stay on track for college success by signing up for HESC Texts. They’ll receive reminders about important deadlines and financial aid updates—right on their phones.