NYS TAP

Overview

The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) provides financial support to eligible New York State residents, helping to reduce tuition costs at approved colleges and universities across the state. TAP is a grant—not a loan—so it never has to be repaid.

Eligible students can receive up to $5,665 per year, depending on income and other eligibility criteria. TAP is available for both full-time and part-time undergraduate students, including those enrolled in non-degree workforce credential programs at participating SUNY and CUNY colleges.

Does not have to be paid back!
Available to students attending full-time, part-time and in non-degree workforce credential programs.
Must be a legal NYS resident for 12 continuous months prior to enrolling or qualified under NYS DREAM Act.
NYS net taxable income cannot exceed $125,000 for dependent students; $60,000 for married students with no dependents; $30,000 for independent single students with no dependents.
Available to eligible full-time, part-time, and non-degree students.

Eligibility

To be eligible for TAP, you must:

Be a United States citizen or eligible noncitizen and a New York State resident for at least 12 continuous months prior to enrollment. Students who do not meet residency requirements may qualify through the NYS DREAM Act
Be enrolled full-time or part-time in an approved undergraduate program at a New York State college or university.
Meet income eligibility requirements.

How To Apply

Applying for TAP is simple:

Complete the FAFSA – Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). After completing the FAFSA, you’ll be directed to the TAP application.
Submit Your TAP Application – If you missed the TAP link after completing the FAFSA, you can apply directly on the HESC website.
Create a HESC Account – Set up a HESC-specific user ID and PIN (HESCPIN) to manage your TAP application and financial aid information.
Track Your Application – Log in to your HESC account to check your TAP status anytime.

Students who do not meet residency requirements may still be eligible through the NYS DREAM Act.

Apply Here

Additional Resources

TAP Award Estimator – Get an estimate of your potential TAP award.
Non-Degree TAP - Learn how TAP supports non-degree students.
Part-Time TAP – Learn how TAP supports part-time students.
NYS DREAM Act – Find out if you qualify for state aid as a non-resident student.

Need Assistance?

For help with your TAP application or other financial aid questions:

Schedule an appointment with a HESC representative for personalized guidance.
Find upcoming financial aid events to learn about TAP and other NYS financial aid programs.

Page updated

Report abuse