How to Apply
NOTE: Applicants with 33 or more college credits (in the past 10 years) or a degree are not eligible
To be considered for enrollment, you must meet the income and educational requirements established by the State University of New York. You must also meet the minimum enrollment criteria for your program of choice. Refer to the Eligibility Guidelines linked to below, to determine whether you are eligible. These income guidelines are based on the number of members in your household as well as the total income of all the wage earners in the household in the past 12 months. In extenuating circumstances, waivers may be granted to applicants who do not meet the guidelines but can demonstrate need. Examples of “need” include extenuating circumstances such as suddenly becoming unemployed or being displaced from your home due to a natural disaster.
Copies of Valid and Current Documents Required
Below are a list of required documents needed for your application
Choose one of the forms of income below
- Federal Tax Return (1040, 1040A or 1040EZ), Proof of unemployment/extenuating circumstances, if income surpasses eligibility limit
- Non-Filers: Verification of Non-Filing Letter
- DSS Cash Assistance: Current Budget Sheet (most recent & not older than 90 days)
- SSA/SSI Documentation: Social Security Award Letter for Prior Year, or 1099
- Veterans Administration Disability Benefits Letter
- Unemployment Pension, Annuity Benefits or Workers’ Compensation Letter for Prior Year
- Child Support or Alimony Payment Stubs for Prior Year (court-ordered or affidavit)
- Release Documents or Probation Letter from Parole Officer (if formerly incarcerated) NOTE: Pay stubs, W2 Forms or notarized letters are not acceptable as proof of income.
Choose one of the forms of residency below
- NYS Tax Return (IT-201, IT-150, W-2 summary)
- NYS DMV Learner Permit, Driver License or ID
- Voter Registration Card or NYS DMV Registration
- Apartment Lease or Residential (Shelter) Program Letter
- Utility Bill (dated one year prior)
- NYS Bank Statement (dated one year prior)
- DSS Address History
Vocational programs only, please choose one
- High School Diploma, Verification Letter or Transcript with Graduation Date
- High School Equivalency Diploma (TASC or GED, including test scores)
- Foreign Diploma (must be translated into English)
- TABE/BEST Tests (for students interested in GED or ESOL)
