Bill > A05358

This bill modifies the Excelsior Scholarship program by allowing a portion of the scholarship award to be used for non-tuition expenses, such as room and board, in addition to tuition costs. Currently, the Excelsior Scholarship provides up to $5,500 for eligible students attending New York state universities, with the primary focus on covering tuition. The bill changes existing language to permit the remaining scholarship amount after applying other financial aid (like Pell Grants and tuition assistance) to be used for additional costs of attendance. The modification aims to provide more financial flexibility for students, recognizing that college expenses extend beyond tuition. The bill specifies that the combined benefits cannot exceed $5,500, and requires state universities like SUNY and CUNY to provide additional tuition credits to scholarship recipients. The changes will take effect 60 days after the bill becomes law, with provisions allowing for immediate preparation of necessary rules and regulations to implement the new scholarship use guidelines.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5358