Visit our Excelsior Scholarship and Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) webpage for more detailed information regarding these programs.
Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) - TAP is the NYS grant program for New York State residents enrolled full-time (minimum 12 credit hours) in a matriculated degree program. TAP is estimated on the financial aid plan for students who appear to be eligible. Annual awards currently range between $1,000 and $5,665 and are determined by the state after a student files the NYS Aid Payment Application. Once approved students are notified of their award directly from the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (NYSHESC). Funds are sent directly to the school for each semester of eligibility and applied to the student bill.
SUNY Tuition Credit - Students who have applied and are eligible for a full-time TAP award, may also be eligible for the SUNY Tuition Credit grant program. Tuition credits are calculated by the NYS Higher Education Services Corporation for eligible students enrolled at a SUNY college or university. If eligible, this credit will appear on your bill as anticipated aid. The combination of TAP, SUNY Tuition Credit, and any other tuition-specific award cannot exceed the tuition charged.
Excelsior Scholarship - The Excelsior Scholarship covers tuition for eligible SUNY and CUNY students. This exciting opportunity is available to New Yorkers with a household adjusted gross income up to $125,000 (as filed with the IRS.) For dependent students, the federal adjusted gross income is comprised of parents' and student's income if the student's income exceeds the income threshold for the applicable year. Review the Income FAQs on the HESC website for more information.
Aid for Part-Time Study (APTS) - APTS is a grant for NYS residents who are continually enrolled on a part-time basis. The application is available online or in the Student Records and Financial Services Office. Funds are subject to availability. Funds are sent directly to the school for each semester of eligibility and applied to the student bill.
Part-Time TAP - Eligibility for this NYS grant is limited to undergraduate students attending a SUNY, CUNY or not-for-profit independent degree granting college who were first-time freshmen in the 2006-2007 academic year or after. Students must be enrolled in at least six to eleven credits applicable toward the degree program per semester and have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0. To apply students must complete both the FAFSA and NYS Aid Payment Application.
Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) - EOP is an extended program with course work paced to enhance student success. Students must be NYS residents and meet established academic and economic guidelines. Priority is given to applicants from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. EOP students receive a grant (amount determined based on state funding) for each semester of eligibility. Funds are applied directly to the student bill.
Visit the HESC website to learn more about all the NYS Scholarships and Awards available.