The Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) is a comprehensive academic program created in 1970 by the New York State Legislature to assist in providing access for all New Yorkers to the State's private colleges and universities. The program is designed for students who, based on high school academic performance, have the potential for and interest in pursuing college level study, but do not meet the regular admission requirements of the college. HEOP is sponsored jointly by the State Education Department and Canisius University. The program offers financial assistance based on need, and a variety of support services. The ultimate goal of HEOP at Canisius is to make higher education a reality for New York State residents who are academically under-prepared and economically disadvantaged.
First-Year Students
HEOP Scholars Academy
All first-year HEOP students are required by the New York State Education Department to participate in a four-week summer program. The summer program provides opportunities for students to strengthen their academic skills and to develop positive relationships with peers, mentors, and staff.
The Scholars Academy offers courses in English, Critical Reading/Writing, and Math in addition to educational workshops addressing topics such as student leadership, career development, and financial aid.
The New York State Education Department Office of Postsecondary Access, Support, and Success has approved the following Program Expectations:
• First-year students and Sophomores meet with their HEOP Counselor and Success Coach three times per semester
• Juniors and Seniors students meet with their HEOP Counselor and Success Coach two times per semester
• First-year students attend three educational workshops per semester.
• Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors must attend two educational workshops per semester.
• ALL HEOP students must maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average.
• All HEOP students are encouraged to write lobby letters every spring semester to local New York state senators, assemblymen, and the New York State Governor.
For more information on financial aid, grants, and scholarships, please visit the Canisius University Office of Student Records and Financial Services.
HEOP Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) at Canisius University, an applicant must:
1. Be a first-time college student
2. A New York State resident for at least one year before enrolling in HEOP.
3. Be considered inadmissible under Canisius University’s regular admission requirements, as determined by the Admissions Office.
4. Meet the economic eligibility guidelines for HEOP.
5. Be a high school graduate or possess a state-approved High School Equivalency Diploma (GED or equivalent).
6. Demonstrate the potential to succeed in college, as determined through testing, a personal interview, and complete the required four-week summer program.
Transfer Eligibility
1. Participated in an HEOP, EOP, SEEK, or Discovery program at one of your previous colleges.
2. Have remaining semesters of funding eligibility
3. Be in good academic standing
4. Meet Canisius University’s admission requirements for a transfer student.