College Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP)

Students who are eligible for CSTEP must be:

• A New York State resident
• Enrolled full-time (a minimum of 12 credit hours) in one of the following A.A.S or B.S. programs:
  • AAS-Aeronautical Engineering Technology
  • AAS- Electronics Engineering Technology – Avionics
  • BS- Aircraft Operations
  • BS- Electrical Engineering
  • BS- Electronics Engineering Technology – Avionics
  • BS- Electronics Engineering Technology
  • BS- Mechanical Engineering
  • BS- Mechatronic Engineering
  • BS-Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • BS-Computer Engineering/Science
• Meet the income guidelines set by the New York State Education Department.

Economic Guidelines Table for 2025-2026
New York State Education Department C/STEP and HEOP Income Eligibility Criteria

Household Size	2025-2026 Eligible Income
1	$27,861
2	$37,814
3	$47,767
4	$57,720
5	$67,673
6	$77,626
7	$87,579
8	$97,532

 

Economic Guidelines Table for 2025-2026
New York State Education Department C/STEP and HEOP Income Eligibility Criteria

Household Size	2026-2027 Eligible Income
1	$28,953
2	$39,128
3	$49,303
4	$59,478
5	$69,653
6	$79,828
7	$90,003
8	$100,178

 

CSTEP provides comprehensive academic and professional support, including:

Academic Support
CSTEP provides academic support to help students succeed in their STEM courses. This includes tutoring, skill-building workshops, study strategies, and guidance on challenging subjects such as mathematics and science. These resources help students strengthen their academic foundation, improve problem-solving skills.

• Tutoring in math, science, and engineering courses
• Academic workshops (e.g., Algebra for STEM Readiness)
• Academic advising and degree planning

Professional Development
CSTEP provides professional development opportunities that help students prepare for successful careers in STEM fields. Through workshops, networking events, resume and interview preparation, and career exploration activities, students gain the skills and confidence needed to pursue internships, research opportunities, graduate school, and professional careers.

• Career readiness workshops (e.g., CNC workshop, FE Exam)
• Resume and interview preparation
• Networking opportunities with professionals and alumni

Research and Career Opportunities
Research and career opportunities help CSTEP students gain hands-on experience in their field of study while developing important professional skills. Through internships, undergraduate research projects, and conference participation, students can build their resumes, expand their professional networks, and better prepare for graduate school or careers in STEM and licensed professions.

• Undergraduate research opportunities
• Internships in STEM industries
• Conference participation and academic presentations (e.g. NSBE, SWE, SHPE, WIA)

Community and Mentorship
CSTEP provides a supportive community where students can connect with peers, faculty, and mentors who understand the challenges of pursuing STEM degrees.

• Faculty and peer mentorship
• Leadership development
• Community-building events and student engagement activities

More information from nysed.gov