Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program

The Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program is a state-funded grant initiative administered by the New York State Education Department through its Office of Postsecondary Access, Support, and Success. Established under New York State Education Law, the program is designed to expand access to higher education and professional pathways for students who are historically underrepresented or economically disadvantaged. The program has operated for decades as part of New York’s broader effort to strengthen participation in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, health-related fields, and licensed professions. The current funding opportunity covers a five-year project period from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2030. The primary purpose of the program is to increase the number of eligible students who successfully complete academic programs that lead to professional licensure or careers in scientific and technical fields. To achieve this goal, funded institutions must provide structured academic and career support services. These services include tutoring in gateway courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus, as well as academic advising, career planning, and preparation for graduate or professional school admissions. Programs must also include opportunities for research participation, internships, and exposure to professional environments that prepare students for long-term career success. Funding is awarded to degree-granting postsecondary institutions or consortia of such institutions located in New York State. These institutions are responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive support programs that include both academic-year and summer components. Allowable uses of funds include program administration, student stipends for research or internships, academic enrichment activities, instructional support, and supplemental financial assistance such as books or travel. However, funds cannot be used for unrelated institutional costs, cultural enrichment activities, or duplicative services already funded through other programs. Institutions must also contribute a minimum 25 percent match from non-New York State sources, which may include institutional funds or in-kind contributions. Eligible student participants must be New York State residents who are either economically disadvantaged or members of historically underrepresented minority groups in STEM and licensed professions. Students must demonstrate academic potential and be enrolled full-time in approved programs of study. Institutions are required to maintain documentation of student eligibility and ensure that participants remain in good academic standing. Programs must also incorporate service-learning opportunities, advisory committees, and collaborations with academic departments and external partners. The application process is competitive and requires submission of a comprehensive proposal through the designated electronic system. Required components include a proposal narrative, a five-year work plan, detailed annual budgets, a budget narrative, and compliance documentation such as Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise forms. Applicants must also meet prequalification requirements if they are nonprofit entities. While a non-mandatory notice of intent is encouraged, full applications must be submitted by the stated deadline to be considered. Applications are evaluated based on multiple criteria including institutional expertise, program design, recruitment and retention strategies, staffing plans, and budget justification. The review process assigns points across these categories, with additional priority points available for institutions with strong past performance. Funding decisions are contingent upon legislative appropriations and satisfactory performance throughout the grant period. Continued funding in later years depends on meeting enrollment targets, submitting required reports, and maintaining program quality. Key dates for the current funding cycle include a question submission deadline in early November 2024, a non-mandatory notice of intent in late November 2024, and a final application deadline of December 10, 2024. Awards are expected to support projects beginning July 1, 2025. The program is recurring and has historically been offered in multi-year cycles, indicating future opportunities for institutions to apply in subsequent funding rounds.

Ensure alignment with scoring criteria including detailed work plan and strong recruitment and retention strategies; demonstrate capacity to meet enrollment targets and provide required services; ensure all compliance documents are complete and accurate