Grants and Scholarships - Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program Questions and Answers

Who is eligible to receive a New York State Math & Science Teaching Incentive award?

• A student who is attending a New York State school at an undergraduate or graduate level, and has been in full-time attendance (minimum of 12 credits per semester). In addition the student must have earned at least 27 credit hours or the equivalent during the academic year in a course of study leading to a secondary education degree in the fields of math or science. 
  Note: Applicants may attend less than full-time during their final undergraduate term if less than a full-time course load is necessary to complete their degree.
  
  
• They must be matriculated in an approved undergraduate or graduate program at a degree granting institution leading to a career as a math or science teacher in secondary education. 
  These requirements are mandatory for both undergraduate and graduate students.

What is the amount of the award that a student may receive?

The amount of the award will be up to the cost of undergraduate tuition at a SUNY school or the tuition charged, whichever is less.  The 2014-15 academic year SUNY tuition is $6,195.00.

Does the student have to apply each year for this program?

Once selected, recipients must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the subsequent TAP on the Web to request payment, or call the HESC scholarship unit at 1-888-697-4372 and request a Scholarship and Grants Payment Application be mailed to them. This must be done every year they wish to receive payment under this program. 

Recipients do not have to submit another New York State Math and Science Teaching Incentive Scholarship Program Supplement once they have been awarded this scholarship. 

Do colleges need to select the applicants for this award?

No. Any student matriculated in an approved undergraduate or graduate program at a degree-granting institution in New York State leading to a career as a math or science teacher in secondary education is eligible to apply. HESC will select award recipients from the pool of eligible applicants. The application deadline is March 15. Applications for the 2015-16 academic year will be available in January 2015.

When does the recipient of the award have to start employment?

Within two years of the date of the completion of their degree program and receipt of certification.

If a student has a hardship, illness or pregnancy that keeps them from fulfilling the terms of the agreed upon contract, how will it be handled?

Considerations will be reviewed on an individual and as needed basis. 

Will schools need to notify HESC of the students who have completed their successful academic year in order to receive the Math and Science payment?

Yes.