STATEWIDE — Applications are now open for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), and the NYS Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Incentive Program for the 2026-27 academic year, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced on Thursday. Additionally, the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available, providing students with access to critical federal resources. Together, these programs provide a powerful combination of state and federal support to help New York students and families make higher education more affordable and accessible.
Governor Hochul’s recent historic expansions have made more students eligible to receive the TAP. Nearly 38,000 students who have become newly eligible are now receiving awards, thanks to increased income thresholds and expanded access for part-time and non-degree students. The NYS STEM Incentive Program provides scholarships that cover the cost of tuition to eligible students who are in the top 10% of high school graduates who pursue STEM degrees at SUNY or CUNY colleges. Recipients must commit to working in a STEM field in New York state for five years after graduation.
Students and families can visit the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) website at hesc.ny.gov. for detailed information regarding eligibility, application guidelines and additional resources.
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