NEW YORK STATE (WRGB) — A new report from State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s office says New York’s Tuition Assistance Program has not kept pace with inflation or rising tuition costs since the 2008–2009 school year.
The average award from the Tuition Assistance Program, also known as TAP, has increased 21 percent since 2009. But inflation has risen 44 percent over that same period.
The comptroller’s office also notes a significant decrease in participation among low income households.
The report says that to help keep up with inflation rates and rising tuition, the state should expand award criteria and expand TAP to help cover non tuition costs.
New York has provided $30 billion in TAP funds since 1974 and increased the minimum TAP award to $1,000 in the 2025 budget.