New York veterans will soon have expanded access to affordable higher education. A new policy change to the Veterans Tuition Award program, announced ahead of Memorial Day, will allow more former service members to qualify for full tuition coverage.
What’s changing under the new rules?
Starting July 1, 2025, veterans who served at least four years on active duty will be eligible for the Veterans Tuition Award—even if they did not serve in combat. Previously, only veterans who served in designated combat zones could receive the award.
This change makes the program more inclusive and reflects New York’s growing support for veterans and military families.
Key program updates
The Veterans Tuition Award covers up to the full cost of SUNY undergraduate tuition at approved colleges and training programs. Under the new rules, the program now offers:
- Expanded eligibility: Veterans with four or more years of active-duty service now qualify, regardless of combat experience.
- Flexible enrollment: Both full- and part-time students can apply.
- Stackable benefits: Veterans can use this award alongside GI Bill and Pell Grant funding.
- Year-round applications: The state accepts applications throughout the year.
These updates will help more veterans transition into education and civilian careers with fewer barriers.
Advocates praise the expansion
Governor Kathy Hochul called the update a meaningful way to honor veterans:
“When we reflect on their sacrifices, we must also take action to support their future. This expansion gives veterans the tools they need to build a brighter future.”
Dr. Guillermo Linares, President of the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation, emphasized the impact of access to education:
“Education empowers veterans as they move into civilian life. These enhancements strengthen that opportunity.”
Additional programs for military families
New York also offers other forms of educational support for veterans and their dependents:
- MERIT Scholarship: Covers tuition, fees, and housing for dependents of service members who were disabled or killed during military duty.
- Regents Awards: Provides annual scholarships to children of veterans who died or became severely disabled in wartime.
- Vet Ed: Supports GI Bill beneficiaries in accessing approved education and training programs.
Together, these programs reduce financial strain and expand opportunity for military-connected New Yorkers.
What comes next
The expanded Veterans Tuition Award takes effect on July 1, 2025. Veterans who meet the new eligibility requirements can begin planning now.
For more details or to apply, visit the Veterans Tuition Award website.
As Memorial Day highlights the sacrifices of service members, New York is taking meaningful steps to invest in their futures.
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