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Opportunity Program (OP)

Admissions Information

Here are the demographics for Skidmore College Students

Enrollment: approximately 2,500 students from 44 states and 59 countries
Gender Mix: 40% men, 60% women
Diversity: Domestic students of color: 22%; international students: 11%; students with dual passports: 5%; first-generation college students: 13%
Retention Rate: 95% (fall to fall)

APPLICATION DEADLINES 2026-2027

Early Decision I - November 1
Notification Date: December 15

Early Decision II - January 8
Notification Date: February 15

Regular Decision - January 8
Notification Date: Mid-March

ADMISSION CRITERIA

In order to be considered for the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), you must be a resident of New York State and:

  • Possess a high school equivalency diploma, or the equivalent of a GED
  • Meet program academic criteria
  • Meet program economic guidelines

The average academic profile for potential HEOP/AOP students is:

Objective Criteria

Non-HEOP Admits

HEOP Admits

High School Average

90%+

85%+

High School Need/Resource Capacity

Low to High

Low to Average

Class Rank

Top 10%

Top 25%

SAT Scores** (If submitted)

1350+

1130+

ACT Scores** (If submitted)

30+

26-30

Overall Regents Exam Average

90+

80+

**Skidmore College went SAT/ACT Optional in 2016 +Allows flexibility in offsetting high/low scores in other areas.

This profile serves as a guide. There are several factors that are weighed in determining program eligibility; academic growth, test taking abilities, attendance, personal support systems, community involvement, special talents and motivation to succeed.

A personal interview is required for HEOP transfer students. Interviews are optional for first-year prospective students.

HEOP Income Guidelines - 2026-2027

2026-27 Higher Education Opportunity Program Guidelines*
# in household Federal Poverty Guideline (FPG)1 2021 HEOP Guidelines (185% of FPG)

Persons in Family/Household

Federal Poverty Guideline (FPG)

2025 OP Guidelines (185% of FPG)

1

$15,960

$28,953

2

$21,640

$39,128

3

$27,320

$49,303

4

$33,000

$59,478

5

$38,680

$69,653

6

$44,360

$79,828

7

$50,040

$90,003

8

$55,720

$100,178

9

$61,400

$110,686

10

$67,080

$121,194

11

$72,760

$131,702

* 2026 HEOP Guidelines are determined based on 2022 household income (prior-prior) and 2023 HHS/NPG.

For families/households with 8+ people $10,508 was added to the amount for each additional person.

If you have questions or concern regarding the Admissions process for HEOP at Skidmore College, please contact Kelli Rouse, Director.

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