2020-21 Undergraduate Academic Catalog | Financial Aid

Government Programs

New York State Scholarships and Grants

New York State, through the Higher Education Services Corporation, offers an excellent array of scholarships and grants to New York State residents who enroll in New York State colleges. Program eligibility is based on financial need and/or merit, academic standing, and satisfactory academic progress. For 2020--2021, grants range from $500 to $5,165.

APPLICATION:  Applicants for New York State programs should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year along with the NYS TAP application.

ABILITY TO BENEFIT:  New York residents wishing to receive TAP (Tuition Assistance Program—state grant) need to demonstrate the "Ability to Benefit" (ATB) from higher education. Presently, the SAT and ACT are not acceptable ATB tests. One of the following are required to meet these requirements:
  • US High School Diploma (from a school registered with the State of New York) or the recognized equivalent (GED)
  • A passing score on a federally approved ability-to-benefit test identified by the NYS Board of Regents (Accuplacer, ASSET, COMPASS) and independently administered and evaluated by the Commissioner of Education.
  • A record of a prior (post-secondary) degree earned by a student
  • Completed 24 semester hour credits in specified subjects as a recognized candidate for a degree in an approved (accredited) institution. (6 credits of English, 3 credits of Math, 3 credits of Natural Science, 3 credits of Social Science, 3 credits of Humanities, and 6 credits applicable to the student's program)

For information on programs, contact the Office of Financial Aid or New York State Higher Education Services Corporation, Tower Building, Empire State Plaza, Albany, New York 12255; 888.697.4372 or 518.474.5642. Website: http://www.hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/apply-for-financial-aid/nys-tap.html

Federal Programs

Roberts Wesleyan College students benefit fully from grant and loan programs funded by the federal government. These programs include: Pell Grant, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Direct Student Loans, Direct Parent Loans (PLUS), TEACH Grant (Loan) and The Post 9-11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. Additional information may be obtained by visiting the federal government's website: www.studentaid.ed.gov

Eligibility for all federal programs is determined annually through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and is reviewed for academic standing and satisfactory academic progress. Applications and program requirements are available through the Office of Financial Aid or any high school office. The FAFSA may also be completed online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.