New York

Our latest piece examines CUNY’s programs through the lens of student basic needs, and in the light of changes coming to safety net programs that impact students. We examine the range of resources CUNY currently offers and look at effective programs in other states that help students cover the non-tuition costs of college.

This blog provides a history and overview of CUNY's opportunity programs, demonstrating their national model for how campuses can test and grow student success initiatives.

On May 28, 2026, Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York Legislature finalized the state budget for fiscal year 2027. The $286.5 billion budget sustains investments in postsecondary access, affordability, and success, with increases in some areas. TICAS NY Senior Director Kirsten Keefe responds.

As federal policy drives more graduate students to the private loan market, this blog outlines strategies for state policymakers to strengthen consumer protections, expand transparency, and ensure that the financial aid landscape works in the best interest of students—not lenders.

The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is New York’s primary aid program, accounting for 80 percent of state financial aid awards. TAP is a critical program for students who are low-income to enable them to afford college. This fact sheet outlines how lawmakers can address existing inequities in TAP and ensure it meets the needs of New York students. 

In December 2025, The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS), in partnership with Young Invincibles and uAspire, hosted our first forum for advocates working on student-centered higher education policy in New York State. This blog recaps the day's events, key themes, and next steps.