Tuition Assistance Program Awards Now Available to Part-Time Students

College scholarships through the State's Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) will now be available to New York State residents attending college in New York State on a part-time basis. LeadingAge NY proposed this initiative through its workforce agenda and advocated for its inclusion in the State budget. This $150 million expansion of TAP will enable approximately 75,000 college students to work, while attending college part-time, without forfeiting their TAP award.

The availability of TAP for part-time students will support career ladders for aides, licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and other entry-level staff. By contrast, the original program incentivized the abandonment of employment in order to pursue higher education. LeadingAge NY members may want to alert employees who are attending college to this benefit.

Students may apply for part-time TAP by submitting the federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application. Once submitted, New York State residents attending New York campuses can link directly to the TAP application. For students who have already submitted their FAFSA for the 2022-2023 academic year, TAP awards will automatically be adjusted based on the number of enrolled credits. Eligibility for part-time TAP is consistent with full-time TAP, which includes residency and income requirements. TAP awards do not need to be repaid by any recipient.

Contact: Karen Lipson, klipson@leadingageny.org