Establishes graduate tuition assistance program awards; sets amounts of such awards; provides for restrictions on such awards; makes related provisions.
Summary
Bill S03810 amends the education law to establish a graduate tuition assistance program that provides financial awards to eligible graduate students enrolled in approved post-baccalaureate programs. The program aims to support students pursuing degrees in fields such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics, education, and licensed healthcare professions. The awards can cover up to 100% of tuition costs, with a maximum award amount of $5,665 per year, subject to income-based reductions. The bill also stipulates that students may receive these awards for a maximum of two years and cannot receive them concurrently with other specified awards.
Impact
The bill modifies existing education law to create a new category of financial assistance specifically for graduate students, thereby expanding the state's support for higher education. It introduces eligibility criteria and award amounts that will directly affect how graduate students finance their education in New York. The changes could lead to increased enrollment in graduate programs in the targeted fields, potentially addressing workforce shortages in critical areas such as healthcare and education.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S03810 appears to be positive, as indicated by the unanimous support in the Senate Higher Education Committee and a strong majority during the final Senate floor vote. The discussions leading up to the votes suggest a recognition of the importance of supporting graduate education and addressing financial barriers for students pursuing advanced degrees.
Contention
While the bill received broad support, there may be concerns regarding the income thresholds for eligibility and the potential for reduced awards based on income. Some lawmakers may argue that the income limits could exclude deserving students who still face significant financial challenges. However, no specific opposition was noted during the discussions or votes.
Same As
Establishes graduate tuition assistance program awards; sets amounts of such awards; provides for restrictions on such awards; makes related provisions.
Establishes graduate tuition assistance program awards; sets amounts of such awards; provides for restrictions on such awards; makes related provisions.
Expands eligibility for the tuition assistance program by restoring eligibility to graduate students; makes optional semesters, quarters or terms eligible for awards.
Expands eligibility for the tuition assistance program by restoring eligibility to graduate students; makes optional semesters, quarters or terms eligible for awards.
Exempts the income of dependent applicants from their eligibility determination for excelsior scholarship and tuition assistance program awards and makes adjustments to certain award reduction schedules.
Relates to establishing an early intervention loan repayment program; provides funding is to be awarded regionally with 50% percent awarded to providers with a principal residence within NYC and the remaining fifty percent awarded to providers outside of NYC; provides that awards shall be given to providers who work in underserved areas for 3 consecutive years; provides loans shall be paid over a 3 year period; provides that a working group shall be established within 90 days to develop plans for the streamlined loan repayment program application process.
Congratulating The 2025 Hawaii State Teacher Of The Year, 2023 Milken Educator Awardees, 2024 Milken Educator Awardee, And 2024 Milken Teacher Of Promise Awardee.