Ability to Benefit (ATB) FAQs
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions relating to the Ability to Benefit (ATB) Tests for New York State Aid Eligibility. All New York State residents who have a high school diploma from outside the United States are required to meet the New York State ATB standards to be eligible for TAP and NY State Aid. The ATB Test is untimed, multiple choice, computer-based and comprised of 3 sections: Reading, Arithmetic, and Writing. You should plan to spend approximately 60 to 90 minutes on each section of the test.
To get answers to specific questions please contact us by visiting our Virtual Front Desk at https://ccny.zoom.us/j/2126506488, calling us at (212) 650-6488, or via email at testing@ccny.cuny.edu
Why do I need to take the Ability to Benefit (ATB) Test?
If you are a New York resident with a high school diploma from outside the United States and are applying for TAP/NY State Aid, you are required to take the ATB test as one of the requisites to receive TAP/NY State Aid.
Is the ATB Test being administered in-person or remotely?
The test is currently being administered remotely through Zoom where you will sit one-on-one with your proctor. You must use a desktop or laptop computer with a camera. Please note that you cannot take this test on any mobile devices including smartphones, tablets, etc. You must also be able to occupy a distraction-free testing environment.
How do I schedule an ATB Test?
To schedule your ATB Test please contact us by visiting our Virtual Front Desk at https://ccny.zoom.us/j/21265064888, calling us at (212) 650-6488, or via email at testing@ccny.cuny.edu
How long is the ATB Test?
The ATB Test is untimed and comprised of 3 parts (Reading, Arithmetic, and Writing). You should plan to spend 60 to 90 minutes on each part of the test, so about 2 to 4 hours altogether.
Can I retake the ATB Test if needed?
Yes. If you do not pass your initial ATB Test, you can take a retest fourteen (14) days after the initial test date. If you do not pass the retest, you must wait three (3) months from the initial testing date to retest again. If you need additional retests, another thirty (30) days must pass before subsequent retests can be taken.
When is the deadline to take the ATB Test to qualify for TAP/NY State Aid?
You must take the ATB Test and pass by the add/drop period of the term you are seeking the award for. However, we recommend you take the ATB Test as soon as possible. If you need to retake any part(s) of the test, you can do so before the deadline if you are eligible.
Can I take the ATB after deadline?
Yes, you may take the ATB Test after the deadline. However, you will not be eligible for NY State Aid/TAP in that semester.
I have my Associate’s or I’m a transfer student with sufficient course credits. Do I still need to take the ATB Test?
If you are not sure whether you are required to take the ATB Test, you should send an email to the Office of Admissions at admissions@ccny.cuny.edu
I got TAP/NY State Aid in my previous school. Do I still need to take the ATB test?
Yes, if you have been informed that you need to take the ATB Test, you can contact our office for further assistance. If you are not sure whether you are required to take the ATB Test, you should send an email to the Office of Admissions at admissions@ccny.cuny.edu
I still have not received TAP/NY State Aid. What should I do?
If you have any questions about your TAP/NY State Aid status, you should contact the Financial Aid Office
I’m an international student. Do I qualify for TAP and/or NY State Aid?
You may contact the Financial Aid Office for any questions about your TAP/NY State Aid eligibility. However, if you need to take the ATB Test, you may contact our office Virtual Front Desk at https://ccny.zoom.us/j/21265064888, calling us at (212) 650-6488, or via email at testing@ccny.cuny.edu
Last Updated: 04/01/2022 12:48