New York’s Tuition Assistance Program, or TAP, is a state grant that helps undergraduates pay tuition at approved New York institutions. For 2026–27, HESC lists awards from $1,000 to $5,665, with no repayment, and a final application date of June 30, 2027. The amount depends on net taxable income, dependency status, family size, tuition, and prior aid years. The maximum is not an individual award estimate.
Published income limits include up to $125,000 net taxable income for dependent students and certain independent students with dependents, $60,000 for married independent students without dependents, and $30,000 for single independent students without dependents. Applicants also need 12 months of New York residency unless eligible through the NYS DREAM Act. Students without legal residency should review the DREAM Act route before submitting the wrong form.
Beyond full-time TAP, Part-Time TAP expanded in 2025–26: eligible students may take at least three but fewer than twelve degree-applicable credits at participating SUNY, CUNY, and nonprofit independent colleges. A non-degree version also supports certain workforce credential programs at SUNY and CUNY. Each route has its own calculation and certification, so the college must confirm that the credential or course load is eligible.
Beyond full-time TAP, Part-Time TAP expanded in 2025–26: eligible students may take at least three but fewer than twelve degree-applicable credits at participating SUNY, CUNY, and nonprofit independent colleges. A non-degree version also supports certain workforce credential programs at SUNY and CUNY. Each route has its own calculation and certification, so the college must confirm that the credential or course load is eligible.
Before applying, confirm that the cycle is open and that you meet the official requirements. Gather FAFSA or the alternative form, transcript, supporting documents, and essays when required; keep a copy and receipt. Track the deadline separately from supporting-document dates. Check the portal until the file is complete and ask financial aid how the award coordinates with other aid. Do not budget money that has not been awarded.
When comparing options, distinguish scholarships, grants, waivers, and loans: not all are repaid or cover the same charges. Ask for a balance estimate after FAFSA and other aid, and confirm the rules before relying on the funds.
Read the program profile and the federal FAFSA guide; confirm with the administrator how the aid coordinates.
Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) — New York State Higher Education Services Corporation.
Part-Time TAP FAQ — New York State Higher Education Services Corporation.
NYS Grants and Scholarships — New York State Higher Education Services Corporation.
Guide checked against official sources on October 13, 2026. Eligibility, amounts, and calendars can change; confirm the current cycle with the administrator and your school financial-aid office. Applying does not guarantee an award.
Confirm current eligibility and application steps with the official source before relying on the aid for college costs.
Options to compare
These options relate to the question. Read each profile and check current details before deciding.
New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
New York’s Tuition Assistance Program, or TAP, is a state grant that helps undergraduates pay tuition at approved New York institutions. For 2026–27, HESC lists awards from $1,000 to $5,665, with no repayment, and a final application date of June 30, 2027. The amount depends on net taxable income, dependency status, family size, tuition, and prior aid years. The maximum is not an individual award estimate.
College scholarship and financial-aid program
Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education
The agency sets rates, eligibility, and caps; the college certifies need, cost, and the individual amount within those limits.
Public student-aid administering office
Sources & references
Sources for the information and reporting discussed in this guide.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official program information and application ↗
Primary source
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) ↗
Primary source
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) ↗
Primary source
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗
Primary source
Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗
Primary source
Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.