Becoming a teacher in New York is a rewarding yet challenging journey. With over thirteen different certification pathways, understanding the financial aid and scholarship opportunities available can make a huge difference in reducing the cost of your education.
New York State values its educators and offers a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs to support students pursuing careers in education. Whether you are an incoming first-year student, current undergraduate, graduate student, or an experienced teacher looking to advance your career, there are funding options available to help.
This guide highlights the best scholarships and financial aid programs to support your journey to becoming a teacher in New York.
Scholarships for Incoming First-Year Students
For high school students planning to pursue a teaching degree, several scholarships and grants can help cover tuition and related costs.
Carey Gabay Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship honors Carey Gabay, a dedicated attorney and public servant. It provides a full scholarship to high-achieving students enrolling at SUNY-operated colleges who demonstrate leadership, mentoring, and a commitment to social justice.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- New York State resident
- Incoming first-year student at a SUNY-operated institution (must be enrolled full-time)
- High school academic achievement: Minimum 90 GPA (on a 100-point scale)
- Application Requirements:
- Essay on overcoming academic challenges and demonstrating leadership, mentoring, and social justice commitment
- Two letters of recommendation
- Award Amount:
- Covers full cost of attendance, including tuition, room & board, books, transportation, and personal expenses
Learn more: Carey Gabay Memorial Scholarship
NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Scholarship
Provides full SUNY tuition coverage for students pursuing careers as math or science teachers (grades 7-12).
- Eligibility Requirements:
- New York State resident for at least 12 months
- Enrolled full-time in an approved undergraduate or graduate teaching program for math or science education
- In good financial standing (not in default on NYS or federal student loans)
- Post-Graduation Commitment:
- Must teach full-time for five years in a New York State secondary school
- Award Amount:
- Covers SUNY tuition or up to $7,070 per year, whichever is less
Learn more: NYS Math & Science Teaching Incentive Program
Scholarships for Current College Students (Undergraduate & Graduate)
If you’re already enrolled in college and pursuing a teaching degree, these scholarships and grants can help reduce financial strain.
NYS Masters-in-Education Teacher Incentive Scholarship
This scholarship is for students pursuing a master’s degree in education at SUNY or CUNY.
- Available: Opens July 2025
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Enrolled full-time (at least 12 credits per term)
- Maintain a 3.5+ GPA each term of graduate study
- Earned at least a 3.5 GPA in undergraduate studies
- Residency Requirements:
- U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Legal New York State resident for at least 12 months
- Post-Graduation Commitment:
- Must live in New York State
- Teach K-12 in a New York public school for five years
- Award Amount:
- Up to $5,655 per semester (based on funding availability)
Learn more: NYS Masters-in-Education Teacher Incentive Scholarship
TEACH Grant (Federal Program)
The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant provides funding for students enrolled in eligible teaching programs.
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Enrolled in an eligible education program at a participating college/university
- Completing or planning to complete coursework to begin a teaching career
- Does not already hold a bachelor’s, graduate, or professional degree
- Post-Graduation Commitment:
- Serve as a full-time K-12 teacher at a low-income school
- Teach in a high-need subject area
- Complete four years of teaching within eight years of graduation
- Award Amount:
- Up to $4,000 per year
Learn more: TEACH Grant Program
Scholarships for Current NYS Public School Teachers
For current teachers looking to advance their careers, New York offers grants to support additional certification and credentials.
Albert Shanker Grant for NYS Public School Teachers
This grant supports public school teachers in obtaining National Board Certification.
- Priority is given to:
- Teachers obtaining their first National Board Certification
- Teachers retaking certification components
- Teachers maintaining their certification
- Eligibility Requirements:
- Full-time, tenured teacher in a New York State public school
- Hold a valid New York State teaching certificate
- Commit to completing the entire National Board Certification process
- Continue employment as a full-time NYS teacher for at least one year after completing the grant period
- Award Amount:
- Covers National Board Certification application fees
Learn more: Albert Shanker Grant Program
Additional Funding Opportunities for Aspiring Teachers
Additional scholarships, grants, and financial aid are available for students, regardless of their major.
Excelsior Scholarship (New York State Residents)
- Covers full SUNY/CUNY tuition for students meeting income and residency requirements.
Learn more: Excelsior Scholarship
NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
- Offers up to $5,665 per year for full-time undergraduate students in NY.
Learn more: TAP Grant
Federal Pell Grant
- Provides up to $7,395 per year for undergraduate students with financial need.
Learn more: Pell Grant
New York offers numerous scholarships and grants to help make your teaching career more affordable. Whether you’re an incoming freshman, graduate student, or current teacher, these funding opportunities can help reduce the cost of your education and set you on the path to success.
Learn more about New York’s teacher scholarships and financial aid to help you become a teacher in New York.
