Program Overview

Program Overview

CUNY Start is an innovative CUNY program that helps associate degree-seeking CUNY students get a Strong Start in College. The goal of the program is to help students prepare for college-level coursework and to meet CUNY’s proficiency milestones prior to starting credit-bearing courses.

Program Highlights

• Students can enroll in full-time or part-time classes
• Low cost – $75 (all fees include materials)
• Provides specially trained teachers and advisors to help students prepare for credit courses and to support their long-term college success
• Saves tuition and financial aid dollars
• Provides a well-defined next-step pathway to CUNY’s ASAP, a program that provides academic, financial, and social supports once students begin taking credit courses, and keeps them on track to graduate on time.

Program Information

Information about course schedules, participating colleges, and steps to enrollment can be found below.

Class Schedules

CUNY Start offers a full-time schedule where classes meet 25 hours/week and students attend both math and English classes, and a part-time schedule where classes meet 12 hours/week and students attend either math or English classes. All students attend a weekly college success seminar led by their CUNY Start advisor.

Course Options

CUNY Start offers in-person (on campus), online (fully remote), and hybrid (a combination of in-person and online learning) classes. All instruction is a combination of whole-class, individual, and small-group work.

Colleges

CUNY Start operates on eight (8) CUNY campuses:

• Borough of Manhattan Community College
• Bronx Community College
• College of Staten Island
• Hostos Community College
• Kingsborough Community College
• LaGuardia Community College
• New York City College of Technology
• Queensborough Community College

Enrollment

To enroll in CUNY Start:

• Complete all CUNY admissions requirements (select a CUNY Start campus)
• Connect with the CUNY Start program at the campus
• Attend an information session
• Pay the $75 CUNY Start student fee

Course Descriptions

Math

Building on students’ existing math knowledge, this course emphasizes conceptual understanding through in-depth study of core pre-algebra and algebra topics, including functions in both realistic and abstract contexts. Students investigate mathematical relationships, develop problem-solving skills rooted in math concepts, and explain their reasoning in a collaborative learning environment.

English

Through an interdisciplinary curriculum, students build key English skills and broaden their general background knowledge. Skill development includes argumentative and analytic writing, as well as college-level reading and study skills.

College Success Advisement

Students explore and grow their academic identity and learn strategies to connect with campus resources and programs. CUNY Start advisors work with students inside and outside of the classroom, helping them to successfully complete the program and matriculate with a clear pathway toward academic achievement and graduation.