Aid for Part-Time Study (APTS)

The Aid for Part-Time Study (APTS) program provides grant assistance to eligible students enrolled part-time in an approved undergraduate program at participating institutions. Unlike TAP, APTS is a campus-based discretionary program funded by an annual appropriation.

To be considered for an APTS award, students must:
  • Enroll part-time as matriculated students in approved undergraduate degree programs or registered certificate programs at degree-granting institutions in New York State
  • Must be enrolled between 3 to 11.5 semester hours.
  • Must satisfy all NYS TAP award eligibility requirements, except for full-time enrollment.
  • Meet the program income limits
  • Not have used up Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) eligibility.


How to Apply for an APTS

You must successfully submit the New York State TAP application in order to be considered for an APTS award. Complete the CUNY supplement form located in your Self Service, Student Center on CUNY-First.

Income Limits

Eligibility for an APTS award is based on New York State net taxable income from the preceding calendar year.
  • If students were eligible to be claimed as tax dependents by their parents, family New York State NET taxable income can be as much as $50,550 to qualify for an award. Family income includes student AND parents' income.
  • If students were not eligible to be claimed by their parents as tax dependents, their New York State NET taxable income (including spouse's income) can be as much as $34,250 to qualify for an award. Spouse’s income must be included if they were married on or before December 31 of the previous calendar year.
  • If students were not eligible to be claimed by their parents but were eligible to claim tax dependents other than self and/or spouse, New York State NET taxable income (including spouse's income) can be as much as $50,550 to qualify for an award. Spouse’s income must be included if they were married on or before December 31 of the previous calendar year.
APTS Amount

Awards provide up to $2,000 per year for part-time undergraduate study at participating Institutions in New York State. An APTS award cannot exceed tuition charges.

Selection for an APTS Award

The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) distributes APTS funds to participating colleges in New York State. College financial aid administrators select potential recipients from eligible students and decide who will receive APTS awards based on the funds they have available and students’ needs.