Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for STEP, students must be:
New York State residents
Enrolled in grades 7-12
Economically disadvantaged and/or
In need of, or would greatly benefit from, academic enrichment or support in the STEM areas (to be determined locally)
Economically Disadvantaged
- For the purpose of STEP, a student is economically disadvantaged if he or she meets the income eligibility criteria (2022-28 STEP Income Eligibility Criteria). The eligibility standards set forth apply only at the time of admission as a first-time student to a STEP program. Once admitted, a student may continue to receive supportive services as needed, even if the family income rises above the current eligibility standards.
- Additional documentation of household income need not be collected to determine eligibility under economic disadvantage if the student falls into one of the following categories, and documentation is available to demonstrate:
- the student's family is the recipient of family assistance program aid or safety net assistance through the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance or a county department of social services; or is the recipient of family day-care payments through the New York State Office of Children and Family Services or a county department of social services;
- the student is living with foster parents and no monies are provided from the natural parents; or
- the student is a ward of the State or a county.
- the student is eligible for free or reduced lunch at his or her secondary school based upon family income (verified by the school).
How to Apply
Can students from any school apply?
Yes. Eligible students in grades 7–12 throughout Western New York may apply to Buffalo State STEP, regardless of the school they attend.
Do I need to apply to STEP every year?
No. The STEP application only needs to be completed once. Once a student is accepted into Buffalo State STEP, their application remains active through their senior year of high school.
What should I do after completing the online application?
After submitting the online application, please email your eligibility documentation as soon as possible. This may include documentation of free or reduced-price lunch eligibility or qualifying household income documentation.
Is STEP free?
Yes. There is no cost for eligible students to participate in Buffalo State STEP.
What grades does STEP serve?
STEP serves eligible students in grades 7–12.
What if my school dismisses after STEP tutoring begins?
STEP tutoring begins at 3:00 PM, but students may arrive after their school's dismissal time. Students should come to tutoring as soon as they are able after school.
What opportunities does STEP provide?
Students may participate in academic tutoring, STEM enrichment activities, hands-on workshops, research experiences, college preparation, college visits, career exploration, and other educational opportunities.
What happens after I apply?
STEP staff will review the application and eligibility documentation. Families will be contacted if additional information is needed and will receive acceptance letter or denial via email or mail along with information about program participation and upcoming opportunities.
Where does STEP tutoring take place?
STEP tutoring is always held on the Buffalo State University campus. The building and room location may change. Please call the STEP office or check the Upcoming Events page for the most current tutoring location.