This state is now the only state to offer FREE tuition to four-year colleges, and we hope to start seeing this nationwide

New York is the first state in the country to offer free tuition for public universities.

Governor Andrew Cuomo confirmed Sunday night that covering tuition for NY residents was approved as part of the state’s budget package. According to Cuomo’s office, the program will roll out in tiers: Beginning this fall, students whose families make less than $100,000 will have their tuition covered by the state. Next year, that number increases to $110,000, and then $125,000 in 2019.

The state budget puts $7.5 billion toward higher education, up 6.3 percent from 2016, Cuomo’s office says.

"With this budget, New York has the nation's first accessible college program. It's a different model," Cuomo said in a statement. "Today, college is what high school was—it should always be an option even if you can't afford it."

Students filling out FAFSA forms in the spring will see if they are eligible for tuition coverage, with no need to take additional steps. In order to receive the scholarship funds, students must be enrolled full-time and meet minimum GPA requirements.

We hope this is the first step to seeing accessible education offered nationwide!