To be considered for Â鶹ӳ»'s HEOP program, students must:
- Be a New York State resident for at least one year prior to enrolling in HEOP.
- Be a New York State high school graduate or have passed a New York State General Educational Development (GED) test.
- Meet the educational and economic eligibility guidelines established for the program.
Educational Guidelines
HEOP is designed for students whose educational record indicates they would not normally be admissible under Â鶹ӳ»'s regular admission standards, but who demonstrate the potential to succeed at the university level.
A student's high school grades, educational history, and other application materials are considered when determining educational eligibility.
Economic Guidelines
Students must also meet the economic eligibility guidelines established by the New York State Education Department and provide appropriate documentation.
For the 2027-2028 academic year, eligibility is based on household income and financial information from 2025.
Total household income may include:
- Wages and other income earned by household members
- Child support payments
- Social Security benefits
- Unemployment benefits
- Cash benefits received from the Department of Social Services
Students with unusual or extenuating circumstances may be eligible for adjustments to these guidelines.
2027-2028 HEOP Income Guidelines
You can use the chart below to help determine whether your household may meet HEOP's economic eligibility requirements.
| Household Size | Maximum 2025 Annual Income |
|---|
| 1 | $29,526 |
| 2 | $40,034 |
| 3 | $50,542 |
| 4 | $61,050 |
| 5 | $71,558 |
| 6 | $82,066 |
| 7 | $92,574 |
| 8 | $103,082 |
For each additional household member, add $10,508.
These guidelines can help you estimate potential eligibility. Final economic eligibility is determined after the required financial documentation has been reviewed.
The State Education Department does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, religion, creed, disability, marital status, veteran status, national origin, race, gender, genetic predisposition or carrier status, or sexual orientation in its educational programs, services and activities.