For the 2024-2025 academic year, TAP provides awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,665. This grant is designed to cover a portion of tuition expenses, and it does not need to be repaid, distinguishing it from student loans. Eligible students can benefit from TAP whether they are attending college full-time, part-time, or participating in non-degree workforce credential programs.
How is NYS Tuition Assistance Program different from a student loan?
One of the most significant features of TAP is that it is a grant rather than a loan. This means that the funding received through TAP does not need to be repaid, providing significant financial relief. TAP is available to a broad range of students, including those attending school full-time, part-time, or in non-degree programs. However, to continue receiving TAP funding, students must reapply each year by submitting both the FAFSA and the TAP or Dream Act application.
What is the eligibility for NYS Tuition Assistance Program?
To qualify for TAP, students must meet several requirements. First and foremost, applicants must be legal residents of New York State for at least 12 continuous months before enrolling in college. Alternatively, students who are qualified under the New York State DREAM Act may also be eligible. This act allows certain undocumented students to access state financial aid, broadening the scope of assistance available.
Income limits play a crucial role in determining eligibility. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the TAP program has set specific income thresholds:
- Dependent students: The family’s net taxable income must not exceed $125,000.
- Married students without dependents: The income limit is $60,000.
- Independent single students without dependents: The threshold is $30,000.
Additionally, students must have graduated from a U.S. high school, earned a high school equivalency diploma, or passed a federally approved “Ability to Benefit” test to qualify for TAP. They must also be enrolled at an approved postsecondary institution in New York State.
Award Amounts NYS Tuition Assistance Program, how is it determined
The amount of TAP funding a student can receive varies based on several factors. For the 2024-2025 academic year, awards range from a minimum of $1,000 to a maximum of $5,665. The exact award amount is determined by the following:
- Combined family income, including earnings and pensions.
- The number of family members enrolled in college.
- The financial status of the student (dependent or independent).
- The tuition cost at the student’s institution.
- The student’s history with TAP or other New York State awards.
What is the Duration of NYS Tuition Assistance Program coverage?
The TAP grant is available for varying lengths of time depending on the student’s educational program. Full-time students pursuing an associate degree can receive TAP funding for up to three years. Those working towards a bachelor’s degree are eligible for up to four years of funding, while students enrolled in approved five-year degree programs can receive TAP support for the entire five-year duration.
Application Process for NYS Tuition Assistance Program
To apply for TAP, students need to complete two main steps each year. First, they must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is a federal form used to gather financial information necessary for determining eligibility for federal and state financial aid, including TAP. The FAFSA can be completed online, and it is essential for assessing both state and federal aid options.
Following the FAFSA, students must also complete the TAP application through the HESC website. For those qualifying under the NYS DREAM Act, a separate Dream Act application must be submitted. Both applications are crucial for ensuring that students are considered for TAP funding.