New York residents have a new financial break as the State University of New York (SUNY) system announces that, through Nov. 2, prospective students may submit applications to up to five SUNY campuses without paying any fee. The waiver, now in its fifth year, is designed to reduce the cost barrier that often deters families from applying to multiple schools and to showcase the breadth of options across the Empire State.
How the program works
Applicants can use the SUNY online portal or the Common Application to select up to five campuses and submit their paperwork free of charge. The deadline applies to all participating SUNY institutions, from community colleges to four‑year universities, giving students the flexibility to consider a range of programs and locations.
Leadership emphasizes affordability
“Our tuition at our four‑year institutions is just $7,070 for the year. Sometimes folks don’t realize how affordable, how accessible a SUNY education is,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King. He added that many students are only aware of campuses nearest their homes and may miss out on programs that better match their interests or career goals.
Financial‑aid reminder
Chancellor King also urged families to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible to determine eligibility for federal student aid. Last year, more than $200 million in federal aid went unclaimed by New Yorkers, a missed opportunity that the fee‑waiver program hopes to help reverse.
Impact on families and communities
By eliminating application fees, the SUNY system supports traditional families seeking higher‑education pathways for their children without adding unnecessary expense. The initiative aligns with the broader goal of strengthening families and communities through accessible education, a cornerstone of the state’s commitment to opportunity and personal liberty.
What’s next?
Students interested in taking advantage of the waiver should visit the SUNY website or the Common Application portal before the Nov. 2 deadline. Counselors at high schools and community centers are encouraged to spread the word, ensuring that every eligible family in New York has the chance to explore the full range of SUNY offerings.
For more information, visit SUNY’s fee‑waiver page or contact your local school’s guidance office.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
