Niagara University has announced that it will participate in New York State's Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA) program, the tuition assistance program for private colleges and university students available under the state's Excelsior Scholarship legislation.

This news means those students who are accepted to Niagara as incoming freshman or as student transfers from other institutions (as well as current students) will be able to apply for up to $6,000 in funding (including their Tuition Assistance Program allocation). Those eligible must be New York residents. They may be students who have been accepted for fall 2017, but have not yet committed to Niagara, or those who submit anew application this summer. The university is still accepting applications for the fall, NU's Class of 2021.

"Niagara University has an incredible legacy of providing a high-quality, private education that is both accessible and affordable for people from every background and walk of life," said the Father James J. Maher, C.M., president of Niagara University. "Because of our continued commitment to affordable education, we are proud to participate in the ETA program, and we will continue to strive to make an NU education affordable, consistent with our Catholic and Vincentian mission."

The ETA is renewable for up to four years, as long as students meet the requirements outlined by the state. The program, administered by New York state's Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), carries the same criteria as the Excelsior program. Information, including award details, eligibility and restrictions, is available on the HESC website, though the application is not yet available. (Those interested in applying are advised to keep checking the website.)

"Ninety-eight percent of Niagara University students received institutional financial aid last year, totaling more than $44 million," said Father Maher. "We will continue to provide opportunities to all eligible students. The prospect for additional funding through this state program will further enhance the value of a Niagara University education, which, according to Money magazine, offers the best return on investment in higher education in the Buffalo-Niagara region." 

Niagara University has a 97 percent employment rate for graduates. With more than 80 majors and a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, the university offers tremendous educational opportunities, including more than 200 study abroad options. More than 99 percent of freshman and transfer students receive financial aid.

To learn more about Niagara University, please visit www.niagara.edu.