ELIGIBILITY/DOCUMENTS
What do I have to do to qualify for enrollment?
BEOC enrolls students who are low to moderate-income and who meet our eligibility requirements. See requirements here.
Can I enroll if I am on probation or parole?
All are welcome to study at BEOC. However, for some career programs, it may be difficult to secure employment if one has been convicted. BEOC works with community organizations to assist students with adverse conditions.
Why do I have to provide documents to prove my eligibility for classes?
BEOC is required by its funders to enroll only students who meet its eligibility requirements.
Why does BEOC require so many documents?
BEOC receives state funding and is subject to audit. BEOC must show applicants are eligible to receive services.
Why are W-2s not accepted?
BEOC reviews an applicant’s gross income. Please review proof of income documentation.
Can I enroll if I already have a degree?
BEOC can only accept degreed students for ESL programs. Students in all other programs must have less than one year in college.
APPLYING TO BEOC
How do I apply for classes?
See how to apply. Additionally, follow instructions regarding attending an online enrollment session which provides in-depth information about our programs and services.
Can I apply in person to BEOC?
You may complete our online admissions application here.
How long is the online enrollment session?
You should allow 45 minutes for the online enrollment session.
I completed my online application. What’s next?
You should expect an email update from the BEOC enrollment office within 7 business days of submitting your application.
I completed my online application but I am not able to access it.
Applicants are not able to access their online admissions application once it has been submitted.
How will I know you received my online admissions application?
After completing your online application, a confirmation page appears with the next steps of the application process. We recommend that you print or snap a picture of your confirmation page for your own records.
Why hasn’t anyone called me to tell me if I was accepted?
Notification of admissions status may vary. Check your email regularly or write us at admissions@beoc.cuny.edu if you have questions about your application status.
Why do I have to take a placement test?
BEOC is required by its funders to test all prospective students. All applicants are tested on the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) in reading, writing, and math.
GED/TASC
What is TASC?
The Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) replaced the 2002 GED® Test as of January 2014 as the primary pathway to a New York State High School Equivalency diploma.
Does BEOC offer TASC?
BEOC is a New York State official testing site for TASC. For more information, see Community Resources – HSE Testing.
Is it possible to take the TASC without enrolling in classes?
It is possible to take the TASC test without enrolling in classes. However, to improve your chances of passing; we strongly encourage you to participate in an HSE preparation program before testing. Students who prepare get better results.
PROGRAMS and SCHEDULES
What programs does BEOC offer?
We offer academic and career training programs. Applicants can enroll in short or long term programs, depending on your goals, education and work history.
How long do programs and/or classes last?
All classes/programs differ in length. See program descriptions for more information.
Can I enroll in more than one program at a time?
You can only enroll in one program at a time, but students enrolled in ESL or High School Equivalency may continue on to other programs.
Does BEOC offer college credits?
All of BEOC’s programs are non-credit certifications only.
Are BEOC programs approved by HRA or the Department of Labor for unemployment?
Yes, our programs are approved.
When do classes start?
Most classes begin in late August or early February; however, College Prep and some short programs have various start dates throughout the year. You can apply any time and will be processed for the next start date. Applicants who are accepted early can participate in JumpStart, Computer Boot Camp or other certification programs in the ATTAIN lab.
Does BEOC have weekend classes?
Day classes are held Monday through Friday
Evening classes are held Monday through Thursday
Can I take day and evening classes based on my work schedule?
Applicants must select either the day or evening schedule when applying. However, students with particular scheduling needs should speak to a student advisor.
Does BEOC offer computer classes?
All of our programs are computer-based. Students can get help in basic computer literacy, including advanced coursework depending on your program.
COST
Are BEOC programs free?
Yes! BEOC programs are tuition-free for eligible New York State residents. BEOC is funded by New York State.
What do I have to pay for?
All students pay a refundable book deposit and provide their own basic supplies, like notebooks, etc.
JOB PLACEMENT
Do you assist with job placement?
Career Advisors and job developers assist students in securing employment. Students must actively engage in job search activities to improve their placement possibilities.
What are BEOC job placement statistics?
See BEOC Quick Facts 2015 – 2020
Are internships required and what is the pay?
Although internships are not required, having work experience in most programs can be very beneficial. Internships are unpaid but some provide car fare.
STUDENT SUPPORT/ACCOMMODATIONS
If I have a learning or other disability, can I attend?
BEOC does not discriminate against any applicant – all are welcome. Students who need accommodations or academic adjustments should speak to a student advisor. The Advisement Center staff coordinates services for students with disabilities. Students with learning, physical or other documented disabilities receive classroom support, testing accommodations and referral to other agencies.
Is tutoring or other academic help available?
Yes! Tutoring is available in our Learning Resources Center. BEOC has individual and group tutoring through the Learning Resources Center. Students can also get help in the ATTAIN Lab. Instructors also assist students during their office hours.
Do you have advisors and counselors?
BEOC has academic and career advisors who will assist all students with developing life skills, setting goals, and discussing educational and career options.
GENERAL
Can I bring my child to class?
Children are not permitted at BEOC. They are only permitted when they are attending a specific activity that has been approved for children, and only for the duration of that activity.
Does BEOC offer free metrocards?
No, BEOC does not offer free metrocards. However, students may earn metrocards by participating in certain school activities.
I have been out of school for a long time. Will I fit in?
BEOC’s student population is diverse. We have experience working with students of all ages who may not feel ready or are anxious about returning to school. Our faculty and staff focus on creating a welcoming, supportive learning environment that aids the student’s success.
