CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez and NYC Schools Chancellor Me
CUNY
CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez and NYC Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos distribute “Welcome to CUNY” letters to Brooklyn Tech seniors. - 1
The City University of New York (CUNY) and New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) launched the "Welcome to CUNY" campaign, welcoming NYC high school seniors to consider CUNY with waived application fees and personalized letters. The campaign aims to make higher education accessible by alleviating financial burdens and showcasing CUNY as a path forward.
Opening Doors to Higher Education
The collaboration between CUNY and NYCPS marks a continuing commitment to bridging high school students toward affordable college options. CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez and NYC Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos led the initiative, which provides fee waivers for all NYCPS seniors, good until November 15. Last year, over 80% of CUNY’s incoming freshmen hailed from NYC public schools, and Brooklyn Tech ranks as one of CUNY’s top feeder schools, with nearly 400 students enrolled in CUNY last year alone.
"By waiving application fees and extending a personal invitation, we're opening the door to students from all backgrounds to pursue quality higher education close to home,” said Matos Rodríguez. "The collaboration with NYC Public Schools strengthens our ability to fight educational inequities together."
CUNY Chancellor Matos Rodríguez poses with Brooklyn Tech seniors. - 1
CUNY
CUNY Chancellor Matos Rodríguez poses with Brooklyn Tech seniors. - 1
CUNY Chancellor Matos Rodríguez poses with Brooklyn Tech seniors. - 1
CUNY
CUNY Chancellor Matos Rodríguez poses with Brooklyn Tech seniors. - 1
Simplifying the College Journey
Each senior receiving the letter can scan a QR code to access CUNY’s admissions page, which provides resources on financial aid, scholarships, and access to virtual enrollment counselors. NYCPS students graduating in 2025 will be guaranteed admission to CUNY’s community colleges, opening new paths for students to earn an affordable college degree.
The letters, available in nine languages, also showcase the top five reasons to choose CUNY, underscoring diversity, affordability, and academic excellence. This student-focused approach aligns with Gov. Kathy Hochul's College Application Month and broader efforts to eliminate enrollment barriers through public awareness and support initiatives like the CUNY Financial Aid Support Team (FAST).
Building Careers and Futures
As part of a broader push by the Adams Administration, NYCPS and CUNY also provide career pathways and college readiness programs, including early college credit through College Now and career-oriented courses reaching nearly 15,000 students through FutureReadyNYC. For NYCPS graduates, college and career coaches offer guidance on both college matriculation and direct employment pathways, ensuring students have options regardless of their post-high school plans.
"Every NYCPS senior deserves to see a path to a meaningful future, and our public schools are here to make sure they do,” said Aviles-Ramos. “Our partnership with CUNY helps dismantle historic barriers, supporting students as they take this next important step."
CUNY Chancellor Matos Rodríguez distributes CUNY alumni merchandise to
CUNY
CUNY Chancellor Matos Rodríguez distributes CUNY alumni merchandise to Schools Chancellor Aviles-Ramos, second from left, who spoke to students about her experiences as a CUNY alumna. - 1
CUNY Chancellor Matos Rodríguez distributes CUNY alumni merchandise to
CUNY
CUNY Chancellor Matos Rodríguez distributes CUNY alumni merchandise to Schools Chancellor Aviles-Ramos, second from left, who spoke to students about her experiences as a CUNY alumna. - 1
Celebrating Statewide Recognition
CUNY’s approach to college readiness has gained national attention. In Washington, D.C., last month, the University received the Higher Education Innovation Award for the CUNY FAST program, which hires college students to guide NYC high schoolers in FAFSA completion and offer in-person support at local schools and libraries.
A Legacy of Access
From its origins as the nation’s first public university, CUNY has served as a cornerstone of educational opportunity in New York. With over 233,000 students and a mission to provide affordable education for all, CUNY continues to propel students from diverse backgrounds into careers that strengthen the city’s workforce. Over 80% of graduates remain in New York, making an impact across civic, economic, and cultural sectors.
