Veterans Tuition Awards
Veterans Tuition Awards (VTA) are available to New York State residents who served in Indochina between December 22, 1961 and March 7, 1975; in the Persian Gulf on or after August 2, 1990; and in Afghanistan during hostilities on or after September 11, 2001. Veterans may be eligible to receive up to $3,165 (undergraduate) or $3,247 (graduate) as full-time students. Full-time is defined as being registered for twelve or more credits. Part-time study awards will be prorated by credit hour. Part-time status is defined as at least three credits but fewer than twelve credits per semester at in-state, degree-granting institutions or approved vocational programs.
New York State veterans must first complete both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) applications.
Veterans must also complete the New York State Veterans Tuition Awards Supplement or contact HESC. Be sure to print the Web Supplement Confirmation page, sign it and mail to HESC along with the required documentation according to the instructions.
Questions regarding eligible service or how to document service should be directed to the HESC Scholarship Unit at 888.697.4372.
Please note that combined tuition benefits available to a student cannot exceed the student’s total tuition costs. Tuition payments received by student under the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33 Veterans Benefits) are considered duplicative of any Veterans Tuition Assistance award and will reduce the VTA award.
Applications must be completed by June 30 of the academic year for which an award is sought. Questions regarding Veterans Benefits may be directed to the Financial Aid Office.