Student Admissions
Applications for the 2026–2027 admissions season are now open
Contact us for support at admissions@btny.org or call/text 917-633-5757.
How Our Program Works
Breakthrough New York (BTNY) is a tuition-free, 10-year program that turns potential into success. Through after-school and summer programming, we help students gain admission to competitive high schools and colleges in New York, while providing guidance, test prep, and individualized support to help them excel academically, grow socially and emotionally, and thrive in their future careers.
BTNY students also have long-term access to an engaged community of peers and mentors, gaining meaningful networks and opportunities that support their journey from middle school through college.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
7th – 9th grade scholars get summer learning & after-school enrichment; high school admissions support; and early career exploration events at ABC, BlackRock, The MET, etc.
HIGH SCHOOL
9th – 12th grade scholars receive 1-on-1 mentoring; test prep; skill-building workshops; college admissions support; college access advising, and more!
COLLEGE
College scholars have personal access to College Transition Coaches; postsecondary emergency fund support; and career guidance and industry exposure & networking
2026 – 2027 Student Eligibility
Students must meet all of the following:
Grade & school type: Enrolled in 6th grade at a public, charter, parochial, or private school
Residency: Currently living in New York City
Academics: At least 90% overall GPA in 6th grade core classes (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies) and Level 3 or higher on the 5th grade NY State ELA and Math exams
Commitment: Able to participate in both school-year and summer programming, and planning to pursue a four-year college degree after high school.
Financial eligibility: We use New York City Area Median Income (AMI) and household size to determine eligibility. Families are eligible if their total annual household income does not exceed the amount listed in the chart below for their household size (based on 75% of NYC Area Median Income).
| Household Size (including head of household) | Maximum Income Requirement |
| 2 | $101,775 |
| 3 | $114,525 |
| 4 | $127,200 |
| 5 | $137,400 |
| 6 | $147,600 |
| 7 | $157,800 |
| 8 | $167,925 |
Applicants are required to submit one or more of the following documents to verify household income:
- 2025 or 2026 1040 Form Income Tax Return (student must be listed as a dependent)
- W-2s for all working adults in the household
- Two most recent pay stubs for each working adult
- Benefit letters (Social Security, Disability, Unemployment)
- Employer letter on letterhead (must state average hours, pay rate, and monthly earnings)
- Self-employed families: include Schedule C with your tax returns
Additional factors we consider
All eligible students are welcome to apply. We especially encourage students who identify as any of the following:
- First-generation college-going: Parent/s or guardian/s did not graduate from a four-year college or university in the United States (having an older sibling in college does not affect eligibility)
- Single-parent/guardian household: Student lives in a household with one parent or guardian
HOW TO APPLY
Nominate a 6th Grader to Join BTNY
Teachers and school administrators interested in learning more about our program, how to nominate students, or partnership opportunities can call the Admissions Team at 917-633-5757 or email admissions@btny.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Breakthrough New York? Breakthrough New York is a ten-year, tuition-free program that supports motivated NYC students from middle school through college graduation. We help students from low-income families access competitive high schools, prepare for college, and develop skills to thrive beyond the classroom.
How long is the program? Students join the summer before 7th grade and continue through college graduation — a ten-year commitment.
Who teaches the classes? Middle school classes are taught by college and graduate students training to be educators, with guidance from BTNY’s staff. High school and college programming is led by BTNY advisors and program managers.
Does it cost anything? No. All BTNY programming is free. The only cost is the ten-year time commitment.
Is attendance mandatory? Yes. Students are expected to attend all programming. Limited excused absences may be granted.
When does the program take place?
- Middle School: A mandatory five-week summer program (early July–early August) and after-school program (two evenings per week during the school year).
- High School: Advising, test prep, and workshops to prepare for college.
- College: Ongoing advising to support persistence through graduation.
Where are programs held? As of Fall 2026, BTNY programming will run in Manhattan and Queens. Students attend the same site year-round.
Is BTNY a tutoring or scholarship program? No. BTNY is a college access and success program. We offer academic support, advising, and enrichment, but we are not a tutoring service. BTNY does not award direct scholarships, but we guide families through financial aid applications and help students secure scholarships and grants for high school and college.
Is transportation provided? No, BTNY does not provide busing. Students commute by public transit, carpool, or parent transportation. MetroCards are provided if needed.
Are meals and supplies provided? Yes. Students receive healthy snacks during programming, and all required supplies are provided.
Are families required to attend any events? Yes. Families attend key events such as orientation, high school placement meetings, and milestone celebrations.
Who can apply? Current 6th graders who meet our eligibility requirements may apply.
How are students selected? Selection is based on academic records, state test scores, teacher recommendations, and a group interview.
What if my student isn’t accepted? BTNY only admits students in 6th grade. If not admitted, students cannot reapply in later grades.
Does joining BTNY mean my child will leave their current school? Breakthrough New York (BTNY) is an out-of-school academic enrichment program. We are NOT a school. This means applying to (or joining) BTNY does not change your child’s current school enrollment in any way. Your child would continue attending their current school as usual.