Who is Eligible for HEAF?

HEAF looks for students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, academic motivation, personal resiliency, and self-discipline. HEAF seeks the overlooked, bright student who tests on grade level (Level 3 and Level 4) and whose average is 80% and above.

Basic Admissions Criteria

• Strong desire to attend a four-year college or university
• Committed to attending a competitive New York City Public High School from among those schools included on the "HEAF Approved High Schools" list
• Maintain a grade point average of 80% or better
• Score a Level 3 or 4 on the math and/or ELA portion of the New York State Standardized Tests
• Strong desire to learn and availability to participate in all mandatory program activities

Students may apply beginning in the spring semester of their 5th grade year. We continue to enroll students until the 9th grade, as space allows. The High Expectations program admits about 100 students each year. Class sizes are small so that students can benefit from individualized attention.

How to Apply

If you meet the above criteria, please fill out the application form, available from the Admissions Office or by clicking here.

The admissions process typically requires an interview, personal essay and full review of a student's academic record.

Admissions Contact
A. E. Butler
Director of Admissions
Phone: 212.663.9732 ext. 11
Email: abutler@heaf.org

All offers of admission are made at the discretion of the HEAF staff based on a number of academic, individual, and program criteria.