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TAP Course Compliance

How many credits must I be enrolled in to meet TAP eligibility?

NYS Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) require students be enrolled as a full-time student taking twelve (12) or more credits applicable toward the degree program, per semester as defined in the college bulletin.

Why did I receive a message regarding my TAP award?

You received a message regarding your TAP Course Compliance because one or more of your courses fall within the Electives Classes Not Allowed block on your DegreeWorks audit. Additionally, FACTS indicated one or more of your courses do not meet degree requirements.

How can DegreeWorks assist me in determining my course compliance?

Check DegreeWorks online through the link in your CUNYfirst Student Center to see if the courses you are enrolled in are needed or not needed for your degree. Make sure to then also check the Baruch College website to review the college bulletin you are following to ensure applicability.

What is FACTS?

The Financial Aid Eligibility and Certification Tracking System (FACTS) is an online financial aid tool that will help students understand and monitor their eligibility for the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), Aid for Part Time Study (APTS) and some HESC scholarships. FACTS determines eligibility to receive an award each semester.

How do I access FACTS?

Please see the instructions on how to access FACTS here.

Note: FACTS helps students understand their eligibility for selected New York State financial aid programs: TAP, APTS, and selected HESC scholarships.

It is not your official financial aid record. All official financial aid information is located in the CUNYfirst system. Review the college bulletin for the official documentation on academic programs, requirements, and financial aid regulations.

What steps can I take to prevent future issues with course compliance?

Meet with your Academic Advisor and Check DegreeWorks prior to your course registration and be sure to select at least 12 credits that satisfy unmet requirements.

At least a week after you’ve registered for your courses check your DegreeWorks account again to ensure that none of your courses fall in the Elective Classes Not Allowed

What do I need to do to restore my TAP award?

Make sure that you have filed for an Intended major or a Minor (the class may be compliant with the proper major or minor). Tap Compliance form is available online on the Registrar’s website.

Should my courses be pre-approved if I am an AD-HOC major?

Ad-Hoc majors must have approved major/specialization forms on file at the Registrar’s Office.

Is there a deadline to declare or change my major or minor?

You have 21 days from the start of classes to declare or change your major or minor to be effective for the current term. Please make sure to check the Academic Calendar for accurate dates.

If I add/drop a course will it affect my course compliance?

Any changes to your registration may affect your course compliance. If you make a change to your registration, we recommend that you check DegreeWorks a few days later to see if any of your courses fall into the Elective Classes Not Allowed category.

If I meet course compliance am I guaranteed to receive my TAP award?

In addition to meeting course compliance, you must also meet Academic Progress/Program Pursuit requirements to receive TAP. For more information regarding TAP Program Pursuit and Academic Progress, go to https://www.baruch.cuny.edu/financialaid/tap_requirements.htm.

Why do I need to follow course compliance for TAP?

Following TAP course compliance helps you maintain your financial aid and helps with faster progress towards graduation.