Veterans Tuition Award (VTA)

Must be a New York State resident (US citizen or eligible noncitizen) who has been a legal NYS resident for 12 continuous months before the term begins. Must be a veteran who either (a) served at least four years on active duty, OR (b) served in hostilities in a combat theater or zone of operations (Vietnam, Persian Gulf, or Afghanistan). National Guard members qualify if deployed on active duty for 4+ years or served in combat. Must NOT have been dishonorably discharged. Must have a high school diploma, GED, or pass an "Ability to Benefit" test. Must be enrolled full-time or part-time at an approved NYS institution in good academic standing, charged at least $200 annual tuition, and in good federal loan standing.

Annual award equal to the undergraduate resident tuition rate at a SUNY state-operated campus OR the actual tuition charged, whichever is less. Covers undergraduate, graduate, and vocational training programs. Part-time awards are prorated by credit hour. The award is applied after other financial aid.

Degree students complete the FAFSA and NYS TAP application first, then submit the VTA application via HESC at hesc.ny.gov. Vocational students apply directly through VTA. You will need DD-214 showing qualifying service and proof of New York residency.