Important Information: Financial Aid Awards for Summer Study

Dear Colleagues,

We have received many questions regarding term length requirements for New York State-administered financial aid awards for summer study. While we are continuing discussions with the New York State Education Department (NYSED) for clarification on Part-Time Tuition Assistance Program (PT-TAP) awards for summer study, NYSED has provided the following guidance in a Q&A format. This indicates that shorter summer terms are allowable for students who meet accelerated study requirements under the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education.

Question: Can an institution of higher education (IHE) certify eligible students for summer terms that are shorter than 15 weeks (whether it be one term shorter than 15 weeks, or multiple sessions that together are shorter than 15 weeks)?

Answer: Yes, as long as a student meets the requirements for accelerated study, IHEs may certify eligible students for summer terms that are shorter than 15 weeks.

As we continue discussions with NYSED, please note that PT-TAP is currently allowed for true part-time students (students enrolled part-time in Fall and Spring) for summer terms that are 15 weeks in length. Eligible students may be certified for summer awards and will receive up to the total of an annual award (12 payment points) for the full academic year, based on the number of payment points used.

For any questions, please contact [email protected].

Sincerely,
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation