Living in New York can be expensive and studying even more so, but for the Hispanic community there are many scholarship and grant opportunities that can make a difference in education, housing and career development.
Here we tell you everything you need to know about scholarships for Hispanics in NY, to take advantage of these resources that can help you achieve your goals, without putting at risk your financial stability and that of your family.
Dream.US Scholarship
This is the largest scholarship program in the United States for undocumented immigrant students who wish to pursue higher education but face significant financial barriers. It offers two main types of scholarships:
Buzzy
National Scholarship: This is for high school graduates or those currently/previously enrolled in college to attend a partner college in their state. The National Scholarship is for tuition and fees up to $16,500 for an associate’s degree or $33,000 for a bachelor’s degree. Most recipients would also receive an additional $6,000 grant for books, supplies and transportation.
Opportunity Scholarship: This is a full scholarship to one of five opportunity partner universities, providing up to $100,000 to cover tuition, fees, room and board for its recipients during the four years they work toward graduating with a bachelor’s degree.
Eligibility requirements: Be an undocumented immigrant with or without DACA or TPS. Have arrived in the United States before the age of 16 and before November 1, 2021. Have significant financial need. Have graduated or are close to graduating from a U.S. high school, or have obtained a GED, with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. Intend to enroll full-time in an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program at a program partner university in fall 2025 or spring 2026. Be eligible for in-state tuition at the partner university you wish to attend.
For more information and to apply, visit the official website of TheDream.US.
Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholarships
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) is a leading U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Hispanic students and families with the resources needed to successfully complete a higher education.
Scholarship amounts: Scholarships range from $500 to $5,000, based on financial need and academic merit.
Additional Benefits: In addition to financial support, HSF Scholars have access to a variety of academic support services, including: Career Services, mentoring, leadership development, wellness training, internship opportunities, and employment through HSF’s corporate partners.
The goal of these scholarships is to empower Hispanic students and families with the resources necessary to successfully complete a higher education
QuéOnnda.com
Eligibility requirements: Be of Hispanic descent. Be a U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident or DACA recipient. For high school students: maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. For undergraduate and graduate students: maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Complete the FAFSA or applicable state financial aid forms.
For more information and to apply, visit the official HSF website.
NYC Mayor’s Graduate Scholarship Program
The Mayor’s Graduate Scholarship Program (MGSP) is an initiative of the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), which provides full-time government employees the opportunity to compete for scholarships for graduate study at local academic institutions.
Eligibility Requirements: Be a full-time employee of the New York City government. Have completed a bachelor’s degree prior to the start of the Fall 2025 semester. Maintain full-time employment with the City of New York during the entire period of graduate study.
For more information, including the Guide to Scholarship Offers and details of the application process, visit the official MGSP website. If you have additional questions, you may contact the program by emailing MGSP@dcas.nyc.gov or calling 212-386-0059.
Housing subsidies
Section 8 Housing Vouchers: A federal program that assists low-income families with rent payments. You can apply here.
NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD): Provides subsidies for home repairs and affordable rent for low-income residents. You can apply here.
HEAP energy subsidies: This program helps families cover heating costs during the winter months. You can apply here.
For more local information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
