Nearly 130 New York Colleges Waive Fees

New York State is holding its third annual College Application Month, during which nearly 130 institutions—including SUNY, CUNY and about 50 private colleges—are waiving application fees across October and November to lower financial barriers and boost enrollment. SUNY will waive fees for up to five campus applications per student from Oct. 20–Nov. 3; CUNY campuses will waive fees Oct. 27–Nov. 21 for New York City high school students and Nov. 10–21 for students outside the city; private colleges are participating on varied dates. Officials note application fees typically range from $50–$90, and counselors say the waivers let students apply first and compare financial aid offers later. The state highlighted expanded financial-aid access for 2026–27 applicants—FAFSA, broadened TAP eligibility, and new STEM scholarship opportunities for top students attending SUNY or CUNY. Governor Kathy Hochul and education leaders framed the campaign as a practical way to save families money and encourage more students to pursue college.