AOP General Information

The Isom E. Fearn Access Opportunity Programs (AOP) at Geneseo serves as the College's means of meeting the higher educational aspirations of academically talented students who are under-represented at the post-secondary level of education.  The programs that are united under the AOP department are the Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and the Transitional Opportunity Program (TOP).  While the programs serve different segments of society, they are similar in that they both provide educational access opportunities and academic support services to participants.  Eligibility for the EOP program is both academically and economically based and the program provides students with some financial support.  The TOP program, however, is not economically based, although TOP students may qualify for financial aid.

Although applicants for the AOP department represent some of the brightest students in New York State, due to the high academic standards for admission, applicants seeking admission through AOP ordinarily do not satisfy one or more of the College's general admission requirements. Given their academic potential, however,  a more in-depth review of their academic credentials is used to assess their potential for success at SUNY Geneseo.  In addition to high school grades and standardized test scores, AOP applicants are required to complete and submit an AOP specific Part II Supplemental Application, an essay, and other supporting and veryifying documentation(e.g. counselor/teacher recommendations and a personal essay that discusses high school performance and educational goals) before an admission decision is rendered. IN some cases, an on campus interview may be required for some AOP applicants. 

Admisison to AOP, similar to that for the College, is competitive and only one-hundred students are admitted through the program each year.  Given the academic credentials and overall academic ability of the students selected for this program, we believe that the academic and personal support offered by the AOP department and the college, will only enhance students ability to succeed at SUNY Geneseo.  And, over the years, the AOP department has served hundreds of students who have gone on to distinguish themselves academically, professionally and within their communities.  We hope that you will consider becoming part of this elite, proud tradition.

AOP admitted students will be subject to several obligations designed to ensure a successful academic experience.  All AOP students are assigned to a personal counselor/academic advisor who will assist with course selection through their first four semesters at Geneseo.  They will also be limited to four academic courses during their first semester of study, and must participate in an AOP-sponsored summer activity (freshmen only) at an approximate cost of $250-$375 per week.  Please note:  Cost of summer activity is covered by funding provided by the Office of Opportunity Programs and Diversity in Albany, New York for applicants accepted through the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).