Is CUNY Free for NYC Residents?
Introduction
If you're a New York City resident considering attending one of the City University of New York (CUNY) colleges, you might be wondering about the cost of tuition. While CUNY is known for being affordable, it's not entirely free for all residents. Let's break down the different scenarios and explore some frequently asked questions.
The Basics
In general, CUNY charges tuition to both in-state and out-of-state students. However, there are several ways to reduce or eliminate the cost of tuition:
1. The Excelsior Scholarship
This scholarship is available to eligible New York State residents who meet certain income requirements and enroll in a full-time undergraduate program at a SUNY or CUNY college. If you qualify, the Excelsior Scholarship will cover the full cost of tuition after other forms of aid have been applied.
2. TAP (Tuition Assistance Program)
TAP is another state-funded program that provides financial aid to eligible students attending SUNY or CUNY colleges. The amount of aid you receive depends on your family income and other factors.
3. CUNY Grants and Scholarships
CUNY offers a variety of grants and scholarships to students based on academic merit, financial need, and other criteria. These awards can help reduce the cost of tuition and fees.
4. Work-Study Programs
CUNY work-study programs allow students to earn money while working on campus part-time. This can help offset the cost of tuition and other expenses.
5. Payment Plans
CUNY offers flexible payment plans that allow students to spread out the cost of tuition over several months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to qualify for the Excelsior Scholarship?
To qualify for the Excelsior Scholarship, you must be a New York State resident who has lived in the state for at least two years. You must also meet certain income requirements and enroll in a full-time undergraduate program at a SUNY or CUNY college.
How to apply for TAP?
To apply for TAP, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can submit the FAFSA online at fafsa.gov.
How to apply for CUNY grants and scholarships?
The application process for CUNY grants and scholarships varies depending on the specific award. You can find more information on the CUNY website.
How to find a work-study job at CUNY?
To find a work-study job at CUNY, you must first complete the FAFSA. Once you have been awarded work-study, you can search for job openings on the CUNY website or through your college's career services office.
How to set up a payment plan with CUNY?
To set up a payment plan with CUNY, you can contact the bursar's office at your college.