Canisius University Programs
Canisius University Grant
Canisius University grants comprise the largest of our institutional aid programs. Grants are awarded on the basis of financial need and are renewable provided the family situation and income level remain the same. Canisius University grants may provide assistance to those who have financial need that cannot be met by federal or state programs. To apply for this grant, you must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Federal Grant Programs
Federal Pell Grant
All full-time and part-time (taking at least three credit hours per semester) matriculating students should apply for the Pell Grant. Grants range from $689 to $7,395 per year, depending upon need and federal appropriations. The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) may be awarded to matriculating full-time or part-time (six hours per semester) undergraduate students with high financial need. Priority is given to students who receive Federal Pell Grants. Awards range from $200 to $2,000 per academic year at Canisius University. The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility.
Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant
The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant (TEACH) is a grant funded by the federal government to encourage students to become highly qualified teachers in high-need subject areas to low-income students. Undergraduate and graduate students who are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens may be eligible for this grant. Grants of up to $4,000 per year may be awarded to eligible recipients who agree to a teaching commitment of four years in a specified subject. A FAFSA must be completed to be considered. Failure to complete the commitment will result in a conversion of the grant to a loan payable with interest accrued from the time of the award disbursement.
State Programs
Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
TAP is a state-funded program for New York State residents. It may be used only at approved post-secondary institutions within New York State. Grants range from $500 to $5,665 and are based upon a family's NYS net taxable income from the previous year's return. Families with combined net taxable incomes up to $80,000 may qualify. There is no academic requirement for the award. Students must be full-time and matriculating to be eligible for TAP*.
*However, certain students with disabilities may qualify for TAP as part-time students. Visit the Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) for more information.
Merit Scholarships for Academic Excellence
Merit scholarships provide financial aid for four years to full-time students in approved programs at schools located in New York State only. Scholarships range from $500 to $1,500 annually. Winners are selected and notified by New York State. Students much complete a TAP Application in order to receive the scholarship.
Higher Educational Opportunity Program (HEOP)
This is a grant program funded by New York State for academically and economically disadvantaged students attending private institutions. The Canisius Opportunity Program for Education (COPE) Office administers and supervises this program in conjunction with the Admissions and Financial Aid Offices.
NYS Math and Science Teaching Incentive Scholarship
This is a scholarship program funded by New York State to encourage students to become secondary educators in the mathematics and science fields. Approximately 500 scholarships will be offered each year. Recipients may receive an annual award not to exceed $4,350 per year, in exchange for a commitment to teach in New York State for 5 years. View application information.