New York State Honors Veterans by Highlighting Programs Supporting College, Career Training and Workforce Opportunities

Expanded Veterans Tuition Award and Other State Programs Help Veterans and Their Families Pursue College, Career Training and New Opportunities

Beginning in the 2027-28 Academic Year, Eligible Veterans Can Transfer Unused Veterans Tuition Award Benefits to a Spouse, Child or Eligible Dependent

In honor of Veterans Day, Governor Kathy Hochul today reaffirmed New York State’s commitment to supporting veterans and military families pursuing higher education and career training after military service by highlighting financial aid programs for veterans, service members and their families including the Veterans Tuition Award.

The Veterans Tuition Award (VTA) provides college tuition for veterans with at least four years of active-duty service and combat veterans pursuing an undergraduate, graduate degree or vocational training program. Beginning in the 2027-28 academic year, eligible veterans can transfer their unused Veterans Tuition Award to a child under age 26, a spouse, or a financial dependent. This change helps extend the value of their service to the next generation.

“New York's veterans answered the call to serve our country, and we have a responsibility to make sure they have the support and opportunities they need when they return home,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “Whether they are pursuing a college degree, learning a new skill, or preparing for a new career, New York is committed to helping veterans and their families access an affordable education and build their futures right here in New York.”

The Veterans Tuition Award provides eligible veterans with tuition assistance for undergraduate and graduate degree programs and approved vocational training programs in New York State. In 2024-25, more than $1.5 million was awarded to 375 veterans. Applications are accepted year-round.

In addition to the VTA, New York State offers several financial aid opportunities for veterans and military families, including:

• Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute (MERIT) Scholarship: Helps cover the cost of attendance for eligible members of the U.S. Armed Forces and the children, spouses and financial dependents of service members who died or became severely and permanently disabled as a result of injury or illness suffered while performing their military duties. In 2024-25, nearly $6.5 million was awarded to 341 students.
• Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans: Provides annual awards to eligible undergraduate students whose parent served during designated periods of war or national emergency and, as a result of their service, died, became disabled, was declared missing in action, or was taken prisoner of war. In 2024-25, $80,000 was awarded to 189 students.
• Veterans Education (Vet Ed): Supports veterans and other eligible individuals in using federal GI Bill® benefits at approved colleges, universities, vocational schools, apprenticeship programs and other education and training programs.

Recipients must complete the FAFSA and Tuition Assistance Program application each year they are applying for aid. The application deadline for FAFSA and TAP for the 2027-28 academic year is June 30, 2028. Those seeking FAFSA and TAP assistance for the 2026–27 academic year must submit their applications by June 30, 2027.

Veterans, active-duty service members and their families can learn more about these programs, review eligibility requirements and explore additional state financial aid opportunities by visiting the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation website.