Scholarship Opportunity

NYS STEM Incentive Program

Offered by New York State Higher Education Services Corporation

SUNY/CUNY tuition award for top-ten-percent New York high school graduates entering an approved STEM degree and agreeing to work in a New York STEM occupation.

EssayNot required
RenewableYes
Grade LevelHigh School Senior

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

2027–28 Academic Year

OpensTo Be Announced
DeadlineAugust 16, 2027

Eligibility

  • Graduate from a New York high school in the top 10.0% of the class and enter SUNY or CUNY immediately in the fall.
  • Pursue an approved STEM degree full-time and maintain at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA in college.
  • Agree to reside and work in an approved STEM occupation in New York for five years after graduation.
  • Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen with 12 continuous months of NYS residency, or qualify through the NYS DREAM Act.
  • There is no income limit. Maintain continuous enrollment and good academic standing; approved interruptions/disability accommodations may apply.
  • At least 12 degree-applicable credits per term is the standard full-time requirement. Do not accept more than one full tuition-based NYS scholarship in an academic year.

Requirements

  • Apply in your high-school senior year for the 2027–28 round by August 16, 2027.
  • Complete FAFSA and TAP first, or follow the applicable DREAM Act route; provide any requested eligibility documentation.
  • Review and sign the STEM service contract if selected: five years of NYS residence and approved STEM employment.

How to Apply

  1. 1Use the active official STEM application for the 2027–28 academic year.
  2. 2Verify exact top-10.0% class rank and approved major/occupation lists before accepting.
  3. 3Submit by August 16, 2027; attend the fall immediately after high-school graduation unless HESC approves a deferral.