To be eligible for TAP, a student must:

• Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen
• Be a resident of New York
• Study full time (at least 12 credits per semester) at an approved postsecondary institution in New York
• Have graduated from high school, or has a GED, or passed a federally-approved exam demonstrating that the student can benefit from the education offered. 
• Be matriculated in an approved program of study and be in good academic standing
• Have at least a cumulative "C" average after receipt of two annual payments
• Not be in default on a student loan guaranteed by HESC  and not be in default on any repayment of State awards
• Meet income requirements

Tap provides some services on the Web
     Obtain a Duplicate ETA 
     Make Changes
     Check your TAP status
     TAP ETA Instructions

New York State Application for Tuition
Assistance Program (TAP)

Students and families will initiate the TAP application
process by completing and filing the 2005-2006 
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

• HESC will use the FAFSA data to preprint an Express TAP applications (ETA) form for any New York State resident who lists at least one New York State institution on the FAFSA
• All students will need to return the preprinted form with required signatures and social security number(s)
• HESC will process returned forms (ETA) and issue award certificates or additional follow-up requests.

If not received six weeks after filing the FAFSA, the TAP
application may be obtained by calling NYSHESC at
1-888-NYS-HESC.

What do I do after I apply?