Educational Opportunity Program
Our Purpose
At SUNY Empire, the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) is rooted in the belief that higher education should be within reach for all who aspire to it, regardless of financial or social circumstances. EOP at SUNY Empire enhances the student experience by making education more accessible, flexible, and affordable, meeting students where they are and supporting where they’re headed. We recognize that each path to college is unique, and EOP is here to walk alongside students, providing meaningful support and opportunity every step of the way.
Key Program Components
- EOP Grant funding for ten semesters (contingent on eligibility)
- The required OP Launch (an extended orientation program), which includes a writing seminar to prepare first-time freshman students with the college-level writing skills and practice to succeed in their first year and beyond.
- Networking opportunities across the many SUNY EOPs, such as student ambassadorship and prestigious awards.
- The potential opportunity to have their graduate education funded at participating SUNY institutions if they complete their undergraduate program with EOP.
Program Benefits
- Enhanced Academic Support
- Financial Assistance
- Mentorship & Coaching
- Laptop Loaner
- Basic Needs
Application Requirements
To apply you must be a first-time freshman, who intends to study full-time OR a transfer* student who has been in EOP (HEOP, College Discovery, or SEEK). In addition, you must meet the following criteria:
- Submit a high school diploma or equivalency
- Demonstrate economic need
- Complete a FAFSA application
*EOP transfer students previous enrollment will be verified during the application process.
** Students who request consideration for SUNY's Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) on their application for admission must complete an EOP Financial Eligibility Review screening to determine whether you meet the financial eligibility requirements.
Opportunity Programs at SUNY Empire Income Guidelines 2025-26
|
Household Size |
Total Annual Income |
|
1 |
$27,861 |
|
2 |
$37,814 |
|
3 |
$47,767 |
|
4 |
$57,720 |
|
5 |
$67,673 |
|
6 |
$77,626 |
|
7 |
$87,579 |
|
8 |
$97,532* |
|
*For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $9,953 for each additional person. |
|
INCOME GUIDELINES DO NOT APPLY IF:
- 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 Family Day Care payments through the New York State Office of Children and Family Assistance;
- The student is in foster care as established by the court;
- The student is a ward of the state or county.
