Bill > S09335

This bill increases the maximum adjusted gross income (AGI) that a student's family can have to qualify for the Excelsior Scholarship, a program that provides tuition-free college at New York State public institutions. Specifically, for academic years beginning in 2026-2027 and continuing thereafter, the income cap will rise from $125,000 to $150,000. Adjusted gross income, for the purposes of this scholarship, refers to the combined income of the applicant and their parents, or the applicant and their spouse if married, as reported on federal income tax returns for a specific qualifying year used to determine eligibility for federal student aid programs. The bill also makes minor technical changes to the wording regarding student credits and graduation requirements.