Junior Corner

Opportunity Programs: What Are They & Do I Qualify?

Higher Education Opportunity Programs were established by the State of New York to provide comprehensive academic support to assist capable students who otherwise might not be able to attend college due to their educational and financial circumstances. They provide students with support services, academic support and financial aid.

At CUNY the programs are called SEEK or CD.

At SUNY the program is called EOP.

At private colleges the program is called HEOP.

Note that not all NYS colleges participate in the program.

The ways to apply or be selected are different depending on the college/university so it is important that you speak with your primary counselor if you believe you qualify. Your counselor can help only if you provide the 2020 household income documents (IRS tax returns or social services budget letter).

To be eligible you must be:

  • A New York State resident for 12 months prior to enrollment

  • Require special admissions consideration

  • Qualified as economically disadvantaged according to New York State income guidelines.

EOP Economic Eligibility Guidelines**

Academic Year 2020-21

Total Annual Income

Household Size (including head of household)

$23,606

1

$31,894

2

$40,182

3

$48,470

4

$56,758

5

$65,046

6

$73,334

7

$81,622

8

*For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $8,288 for each additional person.

INCOME GUIDELINES DO NOT APPLY IF:

  • The student's family is the recipient of Family Assistance or Safety Net payments through the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance; or through a county Department of Social Services; or Family Day Care payments through the New York State Office of Children and Family Assistance;

  • The student is in foster care as established by the court;

  • The student is a ward of the state or county.

**https://www.suny.edu/attend/academics/eop/

Note: Check with your primary counselor to verify that you qualify. For some of the participating colleges additional application materials and financial aid forms may be required, in order to “verify” that your qualifications are fully documented.

Visit the Campus: How to Visit Without Leaving Your Home

At the moment with COVID-19 it is almost impossible to physically visit the campus but don't be discouraged you can do a tour online!

Visit the sites below to see if the campus you want to see has a virtual tour.