Educational Opportunity Program

Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) is the New York State program designed to assist applicants who do not possess the general admission requirements, yet who show promise and potential for academic success as evidenced through a variety of scholastic indicators. This program is open to New York residents only. Applicants must also demonstrate historical financial need as specified by the policies governing the program. Applicants accepted through EOP are provided with academic and financial support to aid in their success. To begin consideration, be sure to check “yes” for the EOP option on the SUNY Application or Common Application. As an EOP applicant, your application fee is waived.

To be considered for the EOP at Oneonta candidates must have:
~ Official High School Transcript (a high school average of 78 or above) or Official GED
~ SAT score with an 800 or above (Critical Reading and Math only) or ACT Composite score 16 or above
~ Completed Supplemental Application (including autobiographical essay)
~ Completed Family & Financial Questionnaire
~ *Signed tax forms (if applicable) - For example, if applying for Fall 2009 submit 2008 taxes.

No EOP application will be reviewed until all materials are received by the Office of Admissions.

To be academically eligible, a student must be ineligible for admission under the general admissions guidelines at the College at Oneonta. The EOP admissions committee will review each applicant’s academic performance, limitations in preparation for college, and demonstrated potential for earning a college degree.

Financial eligibility starts with the family income guidelines established by the State of New York (table below).

*Plus $4,350 for each additional family member in excess of seven.

These guidelines can also be found in the SUNY System Application/Viewbook within the EOP section.

* Exceptions to Income Guidelines

• The student’s family is the recipient of Family Assistance or Safety Net payments through the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance or through a county Department of Social Services; or of Family Day Care payments through the New York State Office of Children and Family Assistance or a county Department of Social Services

• The student lives with foster parents who do not provide support for college and the student’s natural parents provide no such support

• The student is a ward of the state or county