CUNY seeks $10M in fee waivers and enhances Reconnect program efforts for 2025

The New York City Council meeting on April 30, 2025, focused on addressing small financial barriers for City University of New York (CUNY) students, particularly through the implementation of fee waivers and support programs. The discussions highlighted the significant impact of these initiatives on student enrollment and financial accessibility.

CUNY representatives reported that the introduction of fee waivers has led to a remarkable 386% increase in freshman applications in the first year, although challenges with the FAFSA system affected enrollment numbers in subsequent years. The fee waivers are designed to allow students to apply early and prepare for financial aid, ultimately enhancing their readiness for college.

For the upcoming fiscal year, CUNY is requesting $10 million to cover fee waivers for freshmen, transfers, and graduate students. This investment is seen as crucial for enabling more students to apply to college without the burden of application fees. Additionally, CUNY has requested $8.8 million for the CUNY Reconnect program, which aims to assist students with outstanding balances that prevent them from enrolling.

The meeting also addressed the administrative challenges associated with the fee waiver process. While efforts have been made to streamline the application for waivers through automation, concerns remain about ensuring that high school counselors and students fully understand and utilize these waivers effectively.

A significant point raised during the meeting was the number of students unable to enroll due to unpaid balances. In the 2025 financial aid year, 13,687 students were reported to have been affected, underscoring the need for proactive measures to prevent students from dropping out due to financial constraints. CUNY officials discussed the use of predictive analytics and early alert systems to identify at-risk students and provide timely support.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue outreach efforts to students with outstanding balances, emphasizing the importance of connecting with those who have previously disengaged from their studies. The discussions reflect a broader commitment by CUNY and the NYC Council to reduce financial barriers and enhance access to higher education for all students.