Maskay guide

New York Math and Science Teaching Incentive: award and service commitment

New York has two similarly named programs that should not be confused. This Math and Science Teaching Incentive is for full-time students preparing to teach math or science in secondary school, grades 7–12. It is different from the NYS STEM

New York has two similarly named programs that should not be confused. This Math and Science Teaching Incentive is for full-time students preparing to teach math or science in secondary school, grades 7–12. It is different from the NYS STEM Incentive, which supports STEM majors under a separate service agreement.

For 2026–27, HESC lists up to $7,070 per year—$3,535 per term—or actual tuition, whichever is less. It covers tuition, not the full cost of attendance; other tuition awards may reduce it, and total aid cannot exceed cost of attendance. HESC gives returning recipients priority if funds cannot support every application.

Applicants need 12 months of New York residency, full-time enrollment in an approved program, and annual FAFSA plus TAP or NYS DREAM Act filing. Recipients agree to teach full-time at a New York secondary school for five years; failure can convert awards into a ten-year state loan with interest. HESC showed the 2026–27 application as closed when checked.

Before accepting, compare the net award with the teaching obligation and read the contract: teaching must begin within HESC’s stated period after graduation and certification. Graduate students should confirm the approved program and maximum years. The school verifies enrollment and progress, while HESC determines payment. Official contact: 1-888-697-4372.

Before accepting, request an individual estimate showing aid applied first, residual tuition, mandatory fees, and indirect costs. Confirm residency, credits, renewal, deadlines, and documents with the official program office; keep a copy and submission confirmation. If your situation is unclear, get a written answer from the campus before committing to tuition or housing.

Read the program profile and official FAFSA guide; ask the college for an individual balance review.

NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program — New York State Higher Education Services Corporation.

NYS Grants & Scholarships — New York State Higher Education Services Corporation.

Checked October 13, 2026 against official sources. Eligibility, award amounts, funding, and dates can change by year and budget. A scholarship may cover only tuition or specified fees, not housing, meals, books, or transportation. File the FAFSA when applicable, confirm your balance with the financial-aid office, and do not pay third parties to apply.

Bottom line

Compare net cost and excluded charges before committing; the financial-aid office confirms eligibility and the final balance.

Verification

Sources & references

Sources for the information and reporting discussed in this guide.

  1. Official website ↗ Primary source New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026

    Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.

  2. Official website ↗ Primary source New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026

    Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.

  3. Official application and program information ↗ Primary source New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026

    Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.

  4. Official website of NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Program ↗ Primary source New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026

    Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.

  5. Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗ Primary source Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026

    Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.

  6. Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗ Primary source Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026

    Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.