Education & Student Aid · Surprise rank #447
NY College Student? TAP Can Pay $1,000–$5,665 a Year Toward Tuition—No Repayment
New York’s Tuition Assistance Program is grant aid, not a loan. For 2026–27, eligible students can receive $1,000 to $5,665 toward tuition, with income limits that depend on dependency and family status.
Who
Eligible New York students attending approved in-state programs who meet residency/DREAM Act, income, academic-standing and enrollment requirements.
Where: Approved colleges and eligible programs in New York State.
What to do
Start here: Complete the FAFSA and follow the link/process to submit the TAP application, or use the applicable NYS DREAM Act process. Review your HESC account for required follow-up.
Eligibility: 2026–27 NYS net taxable income limits include up to $125,000 for dependent undergraduates and certain independent students with tax dependents, $60,000 for married independent students without tax dependents, and $30,000 for single independent students without tax dependents. Other residency, school, enrollment and academic rules also apply.
What you get
A New York State tuition grant administered by HESC for eligible students at approved New York schools, including qualifying full-time, part-time and certain non-degree workforce study.
Benefit: For the 2026–27 academic year, an annual TAP award of $1,000 to $5,665 toward tuition; it does not have to be repaid.
Possible value: $1,000–$5,665 for an eligible full-year 2026–27 award, with the actual amount based on income, dependency status, tuition, family circumstances and other program factors.
Good to know
Important: TAP is tuition aid, not unrestricted cash, and the maximum is not automatic. Award size and eligibility depend on the student’s exact income/dependency/enrollment situation and approved tuition charges.
Availability: 2026–27 applications accepted through June 30, 2027.
Why people miss it: Students often stop after FAFSA and do not realize New York has a separate state tuition grant worth thousands per year.
Sources reviewed: Aug 10, 2026