November 11, 2026
FROM GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL: In honor of Veterans Day, Governor Kathy Hochul today reaffirmed New York State’s commitment to supporting veterans and military families pursuing higher education and career training after military service by highlighting financial aid programs for veterans, service members and their families including the Veterans Tuition Award. The Veterans Tuition Award (VTA) provides college tuition for veterans with at least four years of active-duty service and combat veterans pursuing an undergraduate, graduate degree or vocational training program. Beginning in the 2027-28 academic year, eligible veterans can transfer their unused Veterans Tuition Award to a child under age 26, a spouse, or a financial dependent. This change helps extend the value of their service to the next generation. “New York’s veterans answered the call to serve our country, and we have a responsibility to make sure they have the support and opportunities they need when they return home,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “Whether they are pursuing a college degree, learning a new skill, or preparing for a new career, New York is committed to helping veterans and their families access an affordable education and build their futures right here in New York.” The Veterans Tuition Award provides eligible veterans with tuition assistance for undergraduate and graduate degree programs and approved vocational training programs in New York State. In 2024-25, more than $1.5 million was awarded to 375 veterans. Applications are accepted year-round.
In addition to the VTA, New York State offers several financial aid opportunities for veterans and military families, including:
- Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute (MERIT) Scholarship: Helps cover the cost of attendance for eligible members of the U.S. Armed Forces and the children, spouses and financial dependents of service members who died or became severely and permanently disabled as a result of injury or illness suffered while performing their military duties. In 2024-25, nearly $6.5 million was awarded to 341 students.
- Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans: Provides annual awards to eligible undergraduate students whose parent served during designated periods of war or national emergency and, as a result of their service, died, became disabled, was declared missing in action, or was taken prisoner of war. In 2024-25, $80,000 was awarded to 189 students.
- Veterans Education (Vet Ed): Supports veterans and other eligible individuals in using federal GI Bill® benefits at approved colleges, universities, vocational schools, apprenticeship programs and other education and training programs.
Recipients must complete the FAFSA and Tuition Assistance Program application each year they are applying for aid. The application deadline for FAFSA and TAP for the 2027-28 academic year is June 30, 2028. Those seeking FAFSA and TAP assistance for the 2026–27 academic year must submit their applications by June 30, 2027.
FROM SENATOR CHUCK SCHUMER: This Veterans Day we honor our heroic veterans for their extraordinary service and sacrifice for our country and our freedoms. To our veterans, our active-duty service members, and their families: thank you. We all owe you a debt of gratitude we will never be able to fully repay.
FROM REP. NICK LANGWORTHY: This Veterans Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform and defended the freedoms we hold dear. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to something greater than themselves have helped shape our nation and protect the liberties we enjoy today. To all the veterans across Western New York and the Southern Tier, thank you for your service and sacrifice. We are forever grateful. I hope you take a moment to watch my message to our amazing veterans across New York’s 23rd Congressional District and the nation. Happy Veterans Day, and God bless our veterans and the United States of America.
FROM REP. CLAUDIA TENNEY: This Veterans Day, I’m especially grateful for my dear friend and NY-24 resident Gene Gerrard, a World War II veteran. To Gene and all our veterans, THANK YOU for your service and sacrifice! You fought for our freedom. I will never stop fighting for you.
FROM STATE SENATOR GEORGE BORRELLO: This Veterans Day, we honor the incredible courage, dedication, and patriotism of all those who have worn our nation’s uniform. We owe a profound debt of gratitude to the brave men and women who answered the call to serve and made tremendous sacrifices to defend our country and protect the freedoms we cherish. Their service and commitment represent the very best of our nation, and we must never take for granted the sacrifices they have made on our behalf. To all of our Empire State veterans and their families, thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your unwavering devotion to our country. Today and every day, we honor you and remain forever grateful.
