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SUNY drops application fees for low-income high school seniors

State University of New York Chancellor Jim Malatras on Monday announced the elimination of SUNY application fees for high school seniors from low-income households and made it easier to receive.

Starting March 1, students who financially qualify for free or reduced-price lunch programs, whose household income does not exceed 185% of federal poverty guidelines, or who are from foster families are eligible to apply to up to seven SUNY campuses, saving up to $350 in application fees per student.

The new SUNY application waiver is automatic to eligible individuals without the need for additional paperwork or waiver applications.

"Too many barriers, from food insecurity to fees, stand in the way of many qualified students from low-income and communities of color of a college education," said Malatras. "We must do everything we can to break down barriers and empower students no matter their economic status or background, especially as a vast majority of all new jobs created requires some post-secondary education."

Previously, to receive the fee waiver, a student would need to print and sign a request form, have their parent, family guardian or guidance counselor sign it and then send in the form with proof of income. SUNY estimates 110,000 seniors would be eligible for the waiver.

More information is available at www.suny.edu/start.

Mark Wozniak, WBFO's local All Things Considered host, has been at WBFO since mid-1978.
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