Tuition Assistance Questions: What is the Empire State Grant for Teacher Residencies?

Teacher residency programs require a full-time commitment from students; the academic demands alongside the residencies comprise a full workload. This means one funding source graduate students typically rely on — outside income — is typically unavailable. How, then, does one finance a Master of Arts in Teaching from the Steinhardt Teacher Residency Program?

Scholarships, stipends, and wages associated with the teaching residency constitute a significant source, totalling between $25,000 and $50,000 per year. Scholarships, TEACH grants, and Teachers of Tomorrow awards provide additional support. Many students take federal unsubsidized loans to fund their education, recognizing the program as a worthwhile investment in their careers.

Some students qualify for the Empire State Teacher Residency Grant, which provides a $30,000 stipend to residents who meet the qualifications detailed below. This article examines the Empire State Grant, detailing its operation and the qualifications required to receive it. 

What Is the Empire State Grant for Teacher Residencies?

The Empire State Grant Teacher Residency Program is an initiative of the New York State Department of Labor in response to the estimated 180,000 new teachers that will be needed in the next decade. It aims to address the growing need for new teachers in the state by increasing access to high-quality teacher preparation pathways. 

Who Is Eligible for the Grant?

To qualify for the Empire State Grant, you must: 

• Be enrolled in a qualifying teacher residency program, like the NYU Teacher Residency. Further, you must be pursuing one of two qualifying degree options:
  • 34-credit Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in Inclusive Childhood Education. 
  • 30-credit MAT in Secondary Education specializing in Science, Mathematics, or Special Education.
• Complete your residency in the New York State area. 
• Commit to teaching in a New York State public school for two years after graduation. 

What Does the Grant Cover?

NYU Steinhardt, as part of the Empire State Teacher Residency Grant with New York City Public Schools, is able to select residents to participate in the program. New York City Public Schools  then conveys a $30,000 stipend to eligible residents during their one-year   residency experience. This funding is designed to offset living expenses while residents complete their full-time classroom experience and evening coursework.

The Empire State Grant is not a traditional scholarship or tuition award. Instead, it’s a salary-based support structure tied to a two-year post-graduation service commitment in New York State public schools. Students may be able to combine the salary received through this program with other forms of financial aid, such as NYU-based scholarships, federal financial aid, or district-level support, to further offset the cost of earning their degrees. 

How Do You Apply?

Prospective NYU teacher residents should connect with an enrollment advisor to learn more about the application process and program details. The enrollment team is on hand to walk you through the entire process, step by step.   

What Other Financial Support Is Available?

In addition to the Empire State Grant, prospective teacher residents can explore various other aid options. These include: 

• Federal loans: Graduate students can apply for Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS Loans. To apply for any form of federal aid, some institutional grants, and other forms of financial assistance, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 
• NYU scholarships: All NYU teacher residents are considered for NYU Steinhardt merit-based scholarships ranging from $8,000 to $20,000. 
• District and charter scholarships, stipends, wages, and benefits: Many NYU partner schools and districts offer tuition scholarships (or subsidies) to full-day residents. Some schools also provide additional financial support, such as wages or benefits. Explore the residency partner page to learn more about what’s available at various schools.

Take the First Step Toward Funding Your Future

The Empire State Grant offers meaningful financial support to teacher residents. It provides substantial resources to make earning a teaching degree more affordable and address the growing need for teachers in New York schools. NYU is also committed to making teacher education more accessible, offering merit-based scholarships and financial benefits through its partner school network.  

If you want to pursue a meaningful teaching career, don’t delay; start exploring the financial aid options that can help make your dream a reality. Schedule an application walkthrough to discuss your options. Or, if you’re ready, start your application today.