New York State Tuition Assistance Program
The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is a New York State grant that helps pay tuition at eligible institutions. For 2026–27, HESC lists annual awards from $1,000 to $5,665. The amount varies with income, family status, household members in college, tuition costs, and prior TAP eligibility. It is not a housing stipend or an automatic award merely because FAFSA is filed.
About New York State Tuition Assistance Program
The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is a New York State grant that helps pay tuition at eligible institutions. For 2026–27, HESC lists annual awards from $1,000 to $5,665. The amount varies with income, family status, household members in college, tuition costs, and prior TAP eligibility. It is not a housing stipend or an automatic award merely because FAFSA is filed.
HESC sets different income limits by filing status. For the current year, it lists up to $125,000 in New York net taxable income for dependent students and independent students with dependents; up to $60,000 for married independent students without dependents; and up to $30,000 for single independent students without dependents. Applicants generally need twelve continuous months of New York residency before enrollment or eligibility through the NYS DREAM Act.
TAP covers full-time and part-time students and certain non-degree workforce-credential programs. Rules vary by program and level; an associate student may have a different duration limit than a bachelor’s or approved five-year degree. Check HESC’s official school-code directory to confirm that the campus, program, and level are eligible before relying on an award.
Applicants use FAFSA and the TAP component offered during that process; some must complete a separate state application or use the DREAM Act route. For 2026–27, HESC lists June 30, 2027, as the deadline. Students reapply each year and should confirm HESC received both FAFSA and TAP data. Completing FAFSA alone does not always mean the TAP portion was submitted.
The award depends on actual tuition and other data, so HESC’s estimate can differ from the college notice. Schools verify enrollment, academic progress, and charges; if credits drop or the student changes programs or campuses, notify the offices and request recalculation. Ask when funds will post and what balance will remain the student’s responsibility.
TAP can reduce borrowing but may not cover the full bill. Compare it with Pell, campus scholarships, other grants, and total cost of attendance. HESC provides an estimator, FAQs, and support contacts. Keep the application number, monitor verification messages, and ask whether a change in income can be reviewed before committing to a payment plan.
Ask the financial-aid office for a written term-by-term estimate separating tuition, fees, housing, books, and other costs. Keep the award letter, records, and any service agreement. If your studies, residence, or course load change, contact the administrator before that decision affects your aid.
College scholarship and financial-aid program