Scholarships and Grants
We believe financial barriers shouldn’t stand in the way of your education. Explore our scholarships and grants to find opportunities that can help make your dreams more affordable. Whether based on merit, need, or talent, these awards provide valuable support for your journey. Discover how you can apply today!
Scholarships and Grants
For each student, we package together the following scholarships:
- Scholarships based on academic achievement ($1000-$7000)
- Scholarships based on talent, as observed in your audition ($1000-$7000)
- Scholarships awarded at Thespian competitions and events (up to $10,000 total) Please note: Event scholarships cannot be combined with academic or talent-based scholarships, but can be combined with needs-based grants.
Once you complete your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), we will also be able to offer additional grants to help close the gap between your financial ability and the school tuition and housing costs.
Federal and State Grants
Need-based grants from federal and state programs can help lower your tuition costs. These funds don’t need to be repaid, making education more affordable. Learn about eligibility and how to apply. You must notify our financial aid office if you receive funds from outside sources. The Financial Aid office can be reached at (212) 645-0030 or via email at finaid@nycda.edu
Federal Pell Grant
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Federal Pell Grant
This grant provides assistance to students who demonstrate financial need according to federal guidelines. Awards range from $598 per year to a maximum of $5,815 per year.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
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Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG)
This program is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and administered by NYCDA to provide assistance to students with exceptional financial need. All students who qualify are automatically considered for this grant. Awards range from $350 to $700 per year.
New York State TAP Grant
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New York State TAP Grant
This grant provides assistance to students who have either attended at least two semesters of high school in New York or have been New York State residents for at least 12 consecutive months before the term for which they are seeking assistance. Awards range from $500 to $5,165. The NYCDA TAP code is 7816. In order to qualify you must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or apply here.
Outside Scholarships
Explore additional funding opportunities from external organizations. These scholarships can help reduce tuition costs and are available for various talents, backgrounds, and achievements.
Going Merry Scholarships
FastWEB
Scholarships.com
Scholarship America
Cappex/Appily
IEFA
International Scholarships
College Board: Pay for College/Find Scholarships
FinAid Scholarship Search
Sallie Mae College Ahead
Empire State Arts Scholarship
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Empire State Arts Scholarship
Now, New York State Residents can apply for an Empire State Arts Scholarship to help cover tuition and housing for our Summer Intensive Programs. Learn more HERE.
You must notify our financial aid office if you receive funds from outside sources. The Financial Aid office can be reached at (212) 645-0030 or via email at finaid@nycda.edu