New York State Opportunity Promise (NYSOP) - Free Community College

• Engineering Science
• Geographic Information Science
• Respiratory Therapy
• Nursing
• Social Studies for Secondary Education
• Math & Science for Secondary Education
• Bilingual Childhood Education
• Childhood Education
• Early Childhood Education
• Science for Forensics
• Health Information Technology
• Data Science
• Biotechnology
• Paramedic
• Animation & Motion Graphics
• Video Arts and Technology
• Multimedia Program Design
• Computer Network Technology
• Digital Marketing
• Computer Information Systems
• Computer Science

What does the Opportunity Promise Scholarship cover?
The program will cover tuition, fees, books, and supplies required for your specific eligible degree program.

How much funding will I receive?
To receive scholarship funds, students must file FAFSA and apply for NYS TAP, or if applicable, the NYS Dream Act. After all awards are compiled (except FWS, Loans, and VA benefits), the program will cover any remaining balance.

What does “after all awards" mean?
The program will cover any remaining balance after all other financial aid including (but not limited to) TAP, Pell, and Excelsior Scholarship (if applicable).

Is there a minimum or maximum income requirement to qualify for the program?
No, there is no minimum or maximum income requirement to qualify for free tuition.

What if I qualify for federal loans?
Prospective students are not required to apply for federal loans to be eligible for this program. However, they may apply for federal loans in consultation with a financial aid counselor, if necessary.

What if I need other required courses before entering the program – are those free?
If a student in an approved degree program is required to take a remedial, pre-requisite, and/or co-requisite course as part of their program of study, those courses will be covered. Courses that need to be taken prior to entering the degree program do not qualify.

What if I already started paying money on a payment plan or with loans to cover tuition? Do I get that back if I'm eligible for the scholarship?
Funding will be available starting in the Fall 2025 term and will not be retroactive to past terms.

If I have a financial hold with a CUNY college and stopped out, am I eligible?
Students with a past balance are eligible to enroll in the program. However, past balances will not be forgiven and will prevent students from enrolling for classes. Students are encouraged to consult with a Panther Station representative to see what can be done to address the outstanding balance with BMCC. Students must resolve their outstanding balance with other CUNY colleges directly with that institution.

I receive in-state/in-city tuition through the Dream Act or my GI Bill – am I eligible for financial support?
Yes. Anyone who receives in-state/in-city tuition is eligible.

If I drop out without completing my degree, will I get a bill for the courses I took?
No. Students who do not complete will not be required to pay back scholarship funds through this program.

I'm already enrolled in another program (ASAP, BLA, CD, etc.) – am I eligible for both?
Yes, students who meet all eligibility requirements and are already in another program can receive funding. Funding through NYS Opportunity Promise scholarship will be applied after all other financial aid.

Do I have to work in New York State after I complete my degree?
There are no residency or work requirements in New York State following the completion of your degree.

Does this apply to current students or only new students?
Both current and new students are eligible to participate in this program. If you are already enrolled in an approved degree program, you can take part.

I already have some college credits – can those be counted towards my degree?
Yes, college credits may be counted towards your degree. It is recommended to have your transcript evaluated by the Admissions Office to see which credits transfer. Additionally, BMCC promotes credit for prior learning, so consulting with your academic advisor is advised to assess your eligibility.

If I received a certificate and want to continue to get an associate degree, am I eligible?
Yes, students who have not yet earned a degree are eligible to continue for an associate degree.

Can I attend part-time?
Yes, students have the option to attend either full-time or part-time.

How long do I have to finish my degree?
You must complete your degree within 10 terms. Please note that this timeframe does not reset if you switch to another approved program.

If I have to take a break from classes, will I still be eligible when I return?
Students are allowed a leave of absence for up to one year. However, the degree must still be completed within 10 terms.

I'm not currently in an approved program – how do I get free tuition?
Only students in approved majors qualify for free tuition. It is recommended to consult with your academic advisor to determine if one of the approved majors is suitable for you.

I'm currently 24 years old and will turn 25 after the semester starts – am I eligible for the program?
To be eligible, you must be between 25 and 55 years old as of the first day of classes for the semester. If you are 24 on that date, you will not qualify for the program that semester.

I'm in an approved program but will turn 56 before I can complete my associate degree – will I still get financial coverage after I age out?
Yes, you will continue to receive financial coverage even if you exceed the age limit during your studies.

Am I required to maintain a minimum grade?
Yes, students are required to maintain good academic standing as per the college's academic standards and any specific program requirements.

Can I repeat a course for a better grade under the program?
Course repetitions are covered only if you fail, if you require a higher grade, or if the course content has significantly changed.

Do I have to work in New York State after I complete my degree?
There are no residency or work requirements in New York State following the completion of your degree.