New York Guarantees SUNY and CUNY Admission to Students Disenrolled From Howard University

Hundreds of students across the country were left wondering what comes next after Howard University unexpectedly disenrolled more than 500 incoming freshmen just weeks before classes begin.

Now, New York is stepping in to make sure affected students don't lose their chance to attend college this fall.

New York Students Will Be Guaranteed Admission

Howard University attracts a large number of students from New York each year, second only to Maryland, meaning many families were suddenly left searching for a new college just weeks before the fall semester begins.

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To help keep those students on track, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that eligible New York residents who were disenrolled from Howard will be guaranteed admission to participating SUNY and CUNY campuses for Fall 2026. Students will also receive an $800 credit to help offset the non-refundable enrollment deposit they already paid to Howard.

Hochul said New York's public university systems are ready to welcome these students so they can continue their education without missing a semester.

Why Howard University Disenrolled More Than 500 Students

Howard University confirmed last week that it removed more than 500 admitted freshmen after students failed to meet enrollment and financial deadlines.

The university said families received multiple reminders beginning in March, but many students later shared on social media that delays involving scholarships and financial aid contributed to the missed deadlines.

Howard has since begun reviewing appeals and has since re-enrolled dozens of students.

Which SUNY Schools Are Participating?

Several SUNY campuses have already committed to welcoming eligible students, including:

• University at Albany
• Binghamton University
• University at Buffalo
• Stony Brook University
• Buffalo State University
• SUNY New Paltz
• SUNY Oneonta

Additional SUNY campuses are reviewing available space, while participating CUNY schools will also offer expedited admissions.

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State officials say this initiative will use existing enrollment capacity, meaning it won't reduce opportunities for other New York students already planning to attend SUNY or CUNY.

Out-of-State Howard Students Can Still Apply

While guaranteed admission is reserved for New York residents, students from other states who were disenrolled by Howard University can still receive expedited late admissions review at participating SUNY and CUNY campuses with available openings.

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Students and families looking for more information about eligibility, participating schools and the admissions process can visit the SUNY or CUNY admissions websites.

For many students who thought their college plans had fallen apart just weeks before move-in day, New York is hoping to provide a much-needed second chance.