Affordable Degree Guide

Affordable Higher Education in New York

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New York, home to nearly 20 million residents, is one of the most dynamic and diverse states in the U.S. The state stretches from the iconic skyscrapers of New York City to the Adirondack Mountains, the Finger Lakes, and the Great Lakes region.

This variety offers students the choice between urban, suburban, and rural lifestyles while pursuing higher education.

The state’s economy is equally diverse, driven by industries such as finance, healthcare, education, technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and media.

This breadth provides students with extensive internship and career opportunities across multiple sectors, whether in New York City, mid-sized cities like Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse, or smaller communities upstate.

In this guide

Public vs. Private Colleges and Universities

New York offers one of the nation’s strongest public education systems through the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY).

SUNY includes 64 campuses across the state, while CUNY serves primarily New York City residents. Both provide affordable in-state tuition and extensive academic and research opportunities.

Associate degree programs in New York

Tuition starts at $12,600 at Bronx Community College and, based on data from 25 schools, averages around $34,133, with the highest tuition reaching $166,440 at Syracuse University.

  1. Bronx Community College

    Bronx, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $210 in-state | $320 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $12,600
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Hudson Valley Community College

    Troy, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $211 in-state | $421 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $12,660
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 16
    Learn more: Program details

  3. SUNY Erie

    Buffalo, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $217 in-state | $433 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $13,020
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  4. Genesee Community College

    Batavia, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $219 in-state | $244 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $13,140
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 13
    Learn more: Program details

  5. Fashion Institute of Technology

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $229 in-state | $686 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $13,740
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  6. SUNY Broome Community College

    Binghamton, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $236 in-state | $472 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $14,160
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Jamestown Community College

    Jamestown, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $243 in-state | $485 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $14,580
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  8. Finger Lakes Community College

    Canandaigua, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $231 in-state | $325 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $14,784
    Credits: 64
    Number of degree programs: 22
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Alfred State College of Technology - State University of New York

    Alfred, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $17,700
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  10. SUNY Canton

    Canton, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $17,700
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  11. SUNY Delhi

    Delhi, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $17,700
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  12. Empire State University

    Saratoga Springs, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $18,880
    Credits: 64
    Number of degree programs: 12
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Adelphi University

    Garden City, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $443
    Total tuition per credit: $26,580
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Excelsior University

    Albany, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $510
    Total tuition per credit: $30,600
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  15. DeVry College of New York

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $514
    Total tuition per credit: $30,840
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Mercy University

    Dobbs Ferry, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $526
    Total tuition per credit: $31,560
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  17. Hilbert College Global

    Hamburg, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $560
    Total tuition per credit: $33,600
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  18. Bryant & Stratton College

    Albany, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $609
    Total tuition per credit: $36,540
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  19. Pace University

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $641
    Total tuition per credit: $38,460
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  20. Monroe University

    Bronx, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $677
    Total tuition per credit: $41,297
    Credits: 61
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  21. LIM College

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $702
    Total tuition per credit: $42,822
    Credits: 61
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  22. The New York University School of Professional Studies

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $765
    Total tuition per credit: $45,900
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  23. St. Francis College

    Brooklyn, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,220
    Total tuition per credit: $73,200
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  24. Vaughn College

    Flushing, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,247
    Total tuition per credit: $74,820
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  25. Syracuse University

    Syracuse, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,774
    Total tuition per credit: $166,440
    Credits: 60
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

In-state undergraduates typically pay around $7,070 at SUNY universities and about $7,600 at CUNY senior colleges. Out-of-state tuition generally ranges from $18,000 to $25,000.

Private Universities‘ tuition varies widely, usually between $35,000 and $65,000 annually before financial aid. While Community Colleges like SUNY community colleges are the most affordable, averaging about $5,200 per year for in-state residents.

Bachelor’s degree programs in New York

For bachelor’s degrees, tuition begins at $42,360 across seven institutions, averaging $90,707 among 27 schools, and going as high as $332,880 at Syracuse University.

  1. Alfred State College of Technology - State University of New York

    Alfred, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $42,360
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Empire State University

    Saratoga Springs, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $42,360
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 62
    Learn more: Program details

  3. State University of New York at Oswego

    Oswego, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $42,360
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  4. SUNY Delhi

    Delhi, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $42,360
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  5. SUNY New Paltz

    New Paltz, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $42,360
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  6. SUNY Potsdam

    Potsdam, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $42,360
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  7. University at Buffalo

    Buffalo, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $295 in-state | $353 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $42,360
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 8
    Learn more: Program details

  8. SUNY Plattsburgh

    Plattsburgh, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $339 in-state | $398 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $47,760
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  9. Manhattan University

    Riverdale, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $420
    Total tuition per credit: $50,400
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  10. Adelphi University

    Garden City, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $475
    Total tuition per credit: $57,000
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Excelsior University

    Albany, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $510
    Total tuition per credit: $61,200
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  12. DeVry College of New York

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $514
    Total tuition per credit: $61,680
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  13. Mercy University

    Dobbs Ferry, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $526
    Total tuition per credit: $63,120
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 36
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Keuka College

    Keuka Park, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $556
    Total tuition per credit: $66,720
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  15. Berkeley College

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $581
    Total tuition per credit: $69,720
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

  16. Bryant & Stratton College

    Albany, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $609
    Total tuition per credit: $73,080
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  17. Lehman College

    Bronx, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $289 in-state | $620 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $74,400
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  18. Pace University

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $641
    Total tuition per credit: $76,920
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  19. Monroe University

    Bronx, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $677
    Total tuition per credit: $81,240
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  20. LIM College

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $702
    Total tuition per credit: $84,942
    Credits: 121
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  21. Hilbert College Global

    Hamburg, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $790
    Total tuition per credit: $90,060
    Credits: 114
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  22. St. Joseph's University

    Patchogue, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $820
    Total tuition per credit: $98,400
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  23. Fashion Institute of Technology

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $299 in-state | $904 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $108,480
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  24. St. Francis College

    Brooklyn, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,220
    Total tuition per credit: $146,400
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  25. The New York University School of Professional Studies

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,617
    Total tuition per credit: $206,976
    Credits: 128
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  26. The New School

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,510
    Total tuition per credit: $301,200
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  27. Syracuse University

    Syracuse, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,774
    Total tuition per credit: $332,880
    Credits: 120
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

Though tuition is higher at these schools, many offer generous financial aid packages and significant alumni networks. Smaller private colleges provide specialized academic offerings and more personalized learning environments.

Master’s degree programs in New York

Master’s degree programs are comparatively more affordable, starting at $16,950 across six institutions, with an average cost of $34,339 among 35 schools, and a maximum of $93,924 at The New School.

  1. CUNY School of Professional Studies

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $462 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $16,950
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  2. Empire State University

    Saratoga Springs, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $16,950
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 15
    Learn more: Program details

  3. Stony Brook University

    Stony Brook, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $16,950
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 16
    Learn more: Program details

  4. SUNY Plattsburgh

    Plattsburgh, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $16,950
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  5. University at Albany

    Albany, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $16,950
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  6. University at Buffalo

    Buffalo, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $16,950
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 45
    Learn more: Program details

  7. Binghamton University State University of New York

    Binghamton, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $20,340
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  8. State University of New York at Oswego

    Oswego, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $20,340
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 10
    Learn more: Program details

  9. SUNY Delhi

    Delhi, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $20,340
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  10. SUNY New Paltz

    New Paltz, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $565 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $20,340
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 7
    Learn more: Program details

  11. Excelsior University

    Albany, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $715
    Total tuition per credit: $21,450
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  12. St. Francis College

    Brooklyn, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $650
    Total tuition per credit: $21,450
    Credits: 33
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  13. St. Joseph's University

    Patchogue, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $905
    Total tuition per credit: $27,150
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 9
    Learn more: Program details

  14. Keuka College

    Keuka Park, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $846
    Total tuition per credit: $27,918
    Credits: 33
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  15. Hilbert College Global

    Hamburg, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $790
    Total tuition per credit: $28,440
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  16. SUNY Geneseo

    Geneseo, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $999 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $29,970
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  17. Lehman College

    Bronx, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $610 in-state | $1000 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $30,000
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  18. DeVry College of New York

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $776
    Total tuition per credit: $30,264
    Credits: 39
    Number of degree programs: 1
    Learn more: Program details

  19. SUNY Potsdam

    Potsdam, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $471 in-state | $963 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $31,779
    Credits: 33
    Number of degree programs: 11
    Learn more: Program details

  20. Mercy University

    Dobbs Ferry, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,108
    Total tuition per credit: $33,240
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 21
    Learn more: Program details

  21. St. Bonaventure University

    St. Bonaventure, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $875
    Total tuition per credit: $33,250
    Credits: 38
    Number of degree programs: 13
    Learn more: Program details

  22. SUNY Brockport

    Brockport, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $943 in-state | $1131 out-of-state
    Total tuition per credit: $33,930
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 28
    Learn more: Program details

  23. Monroe University

    Bronx, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $960
    Total tuition per credit: $34,560
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 13
    Learn more: Program details

  24. Berkeley College

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,175
    Total tuition per credit: $35,250
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

  25. Adelphi University

    Garden City, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,035
    Total tuition per credit: $37,260
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 13
    Learn more: Program details

  26. Pace University

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,270
    Total tuition per credit: $38,100
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  27. Yeshiva University

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,308
    Total tuition per credit: $39,240
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 3
    Learn more: Program details

  28. Manhattan University

    Riverdale, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,540
    Total tuition per credit: $46,200
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 6
    Learn more: Program details

  29. LIM College

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,221
    Total tuition per credit: $47,619
    Credits: 39
    Number of degree programs: 4
    Learn more: Program details

  30. Fordham University

    Bronx, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,799
    Total tuition per credit: $53,970
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 17
    Learn more: Program details

  31. Hofstra University

    Hempstead, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,800
    Total tuition per credit: $54,000
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 5
    Learn more: Program details

  32. Syracuse University

    Syracuse, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,015
    Total tuition per credit: $60,450
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 18
    Learn more: Program details

  33. New York Institute of Technology

    Long Island, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,680
    Total tuition per credit: $60,480
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 16
    Learn more: Program details

  34. The New York University School of Professional Studies

    New York, New York
    Delivery method: Online
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,297
    Total tuition per credit: $68,910
    Credits: 30
    Number of degree programs: 14
    Learn more: Program details

  35. The New School

    New York, New York
    2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,609
    Total tuition per credit: $93,924
    Credits: 36
    Number of degree programs: 2
    Learn more: Program details

Costs Beyond Tuition in New York

  • Room & Board: SUNY campuses estimate $14,000–$16,000 annually for housing and meal plans. CUNY students often have lower housing costs if they commute, but NYC-based housing can be more expensive.
  • Books & Supplies: Typically $1,200–$1,500 per year.
  • Transportation: Varies by location; NYC students spend around $1,500+ annually on public transit, while upstate students often need cars, which can add $2,000–$3,000 per year.
  • Living Costs: The cost of living in New York City is among the highest in the nation, while upstate communities like Binghamton, Albany, and Buffalo are more affordable.
  • Pell Grants: For qualifying low-income students, federal Pell Grants (up to $7,395 for 2025–2026) can combine with TAP and Excelsior to significantly lower expenses.

Statewide Initiatives in New York

Excelsior Scholarship: Covers the full cost of tuition at SUNY and CUNY for families earning up to $125,000, with a requirement to live and work in the state after graduation.

Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): Provides grants of up to $5,665 per year for low- and middle-income residents attending eligible institutions.

Opportunity Programs (EOP, HEOP, SEEK, College Discovery): Designed to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds with financial aid, academic support, and counseling.

STEM Incentive Program: Offers free SUNY/CUNY tuition to high-achieving students who pursue STEM degrees and remain employed in New York after graduation.

Financial Aid and Sponsorships

  • Excelsior Scholarship – Free SUNY and CUNY tuition for eligible students.
  • TAP Grants – State-funded aid for low- and middle-income families.
  • Institutional Aid – Both public and private schools provide scholarships and grants.
  • Service-Based Programs – Aid tied to commitments in fields like teaching, healthcare, and STEM.
  • Federal Support – Pell Grants, work-study, and federal loans help cover non-tuition expenses.

Conclusion

New York offers a unique blend of affordability and opportunity for higher education. Between the SUNY and CUNY systems, nationally ranked private institutions, and innovative aid programs like the Excelsior Scholarship, students can pursue degrees at manageable costs. With financial aid, diverse living options, and strong career prospects across industries, New York stands out as a top destination for accessible, high-quality education in the Northeast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does New York offer free tuition?

Yes, the Excelsior Scholarship provides free tuition at SUNY and CUNY for families earning up to $125,000.

What is the most affordable college option in New York?

SUNY community colleges, such as Monroe Community College or Suffolk County Community College, with average tuition of $5,200 annually.

How much is out-of-state tuition at SUNY and CUNY?

Typically between $18,000 and $25,000 annually, depending on the institution.

What private colleges are in New York?

Columbia, NYU, Cornell, Syracuse, Fordham, and many smaller liberal arts colleges.

Are there scholarships for STEM majors?

Yes. The STEM Incentive Program covers tuition for SUNY and CUNY students who pursue STEM degrees and work in-state after graduation.

Can community college students transfer to four-year universities?

Yes, SUNY has established transfer pathways, allowing students to earn associate degrees affordably before completing bachelor’s programs.

What support is available for disadvantaged students?

Programs like EOP (SUNY) and SEEK (CUNY) provide financial, academic, and counseling support.

How do living expenses differ across the state?

NYC students face higher rent and commuting costs, while upstate campuses are more budget-friendly.

What are the transportation costs for students?

Around $1,500 annually in NYC for public transit, while upstate students often pay more for car-related expenses.

What industries hire graduates in New York?

Finance, technology, healthcare, education, manufacturing, and media, especially concentrated in NYC and other urban centers.