Bill > A08843

This bill amends the New York Opportunity Promise Scholarship eligibility requirements by removing the previous restriction that applicants must not have already obtained any postsecondary degree. The scholarship remains available to students who are matriculated at a community college within the State University of New York (SUNY) or City University of New York (CUNY) systems, pursuing an associate's degree or certificate in a high-demand field. These high-demand fields currently include advanced manufacturing, technology, cybersecurity, engineering, artificial intelligence, nursing and allied health professions, green and renewable energy, and pathways to teaching in shortage areas. The Department of Labor can update the list of high-demand fields annually, and students must be eligible for tuition and fees at resident student rates. By eliminating the previous degree restriction, the bill expands access to the scholarship, potentially allowing students who already hold a postsecondary degree to pursue additional associate degrees or certificates in targeted fields. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A8843