Applications Open For 2026 Empire State Arts Scholarship Program

The New York State Education Department announced today that applications are now open for the summer cycle of the 2026 Empire State Arts Scholarship Program.

With awards of up to $2,000, the program helps remove financial barriers so high need students in grades 6-12 can participate in New York State-based summer programs in dance, music, visual arts, media arts, and theatre. By investing in young artists, NYSED is expanding opportunity, strengthening communities, and fueling the next generation of creative talent.

Opportunities for arts education vary across communities, particularly for students in historically underserved areas. This program directly addresses those gaps by prioritizing need-based support and ensuring more students can participate in programs that drive academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and long-term success.

Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young Jr. said, "Every student in New York State deserves the opportunity to realize their full potential, regardless of socioeconomic circumstances. The Empire State Arts Scholarship Program advances this commitment by expanding equitable access to high-quality arts education and programming and removing financial barriers that too often limit opportunity. Engagement in the arts exposes students to diverse cultures, perspectives, and people, advancing a wider worldview and an appreciation of our common humanity. Just as important, arts education builds self-efficacy, confidence, and a strong sense of personal agency, skills that serve students well both inside and beyond the classroom. By investing in accessible arts opportunities, we are leveling the playing field, supporting creativity, and providing access to lifelong opportunities for students across New York State."

State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, "Arts education is not simply an extracurricular-it is vital to nurturing thoughtful, well-rounded students-and it must remain accessible to all. The Empire State Arts Scholarship Program is essential to securing a future for the arts in New York State by empowering the next generation of artists to pursue their creative passions without the burden of financial constraints. By supporting the arts, we not only uplift individual artists, but also foster the potential for more vibrant, expressive communities as a whole."

The scholarship program is administered by NYSED's Office of Cultural Education and is part of a broader, renewed commitment to arts learning statewide. Today's announcement builds on the Department's launch of the New York State Summer School of the Arts (NYSSSA) Visioning Task Force, an effort to strengthen and reimagine one of New York's most enduring arts education programs.

Program Details at a Glance

• Award Amount: Up to $2,000 per student
• Use of Funds: Tuition for approved New York State-based arts programs
• Application Deadline: Friday, April 24, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.

Eligibility 

To apply, students must meet the following criteria:

• Currently in grades 6-12
• Demonstrate economic need by participating in an economic assistance program
• Be a New York State resident
• Receive education in New York State

Students are strongly encouraged to confirm acceptance into their chosen program before applying for a scholarship. To apply for a scholarship, parents or persons in parental relationship must complete the online application, which is available on the Department's website.

Questions can be directed to the New York State Summer School of the Arts Office at 518-474-8773 or [email protected].