“Today, the Governor outlined several items in her 2025 State of the State Address, most notably for the Association of Private College (APC) members was the proposal to streamline the part-time Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) in an effort to improve access and support for part-time students. APC has successfully fought to expand TAP eligibility to part-time students attending proprietary colleges, and we believe this is a significant next step to ensure students interested in exploring opportunities in higher education can do so.
“We are hopeful the Accelerating Statewide Career Entry in Needed Trades (ASCENT NY) initiative announced today will be expanded to include students attending private-sector colleges so that these pathways are attainable to all students. We agree with the Governor that incentivizing New Yorkers to fill the gaps in the most high-demand areas of our state workforce is essential, and the renowned learning experiences and state-of-the-art programs offered at our member schools can also assist in connecting students with jobs in growing and in-demand industries.
“We also agree that there is a great benefit to providing high school students a head start on their college journeys. This year, we hope that APC institutions will have an opportunity to participate in the state-funded and supported initiatives that will help improve access to college learning in high schools.
“As always, we look forward to working with the Governor and state leaders in higher education to create and advance policies that support educational excellence, access and affordability for all students regardless of what college they choose to attend.”