Applying to Our College Programs for Students with Intellectual Disabilities
Adults 21 and older with an intellectual disability who live in New York City can apply. You must also qualify for OPWDD services, be enrolled in the HCBS Waiver, and have a Care Manager from a Care Coordination Organization.
How to Apply
The application period for Fall 2026 Admission is now open. To apply to AHRC New York City’s Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program, in partnership with the CUNY Unlimited credential program, you must submit Part 1 and Part 2 application materials by December 5, 2025.
Part 1 – Submit to CUNY
- CUNY Unlimited Student Application
- Proof of Citizenship
- Proof of High School Diploma or Credential (or proof of current enrollment if still in school)
Send completed Part 1 application materials to unlimited@cuny.edu.
Part 2 – Submit to AHRC NYC
- Individualized Education Program (IEP)
- Psychological Evaluations (at least one type)
- Psychosocial Evaluation
- Two Recommendations
- Medical History Self-Report
- HIPAA-2 Authorization for Release of Protected Health Information
- Cover Sheet
Send all Part 2 application materials to mrhep@ahrcnyc.org or mail to:
AHRC New York City
Referral and Information Center
Attn: Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program
83 Maiden Lane, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Additional Resources
For detailed instructions and descriptions of each requirement, please review both:
- Application Checklist
- Admissions Guide
Information Sessions
This program offers an inclusive college experience for students with intellectual disabilities. They receive person-centered supports and fully participate in campus life. Those who complete the program at a CUNY campus designated as an approved Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP) by the U.S. Department of Education are eligible to earn the CUNY Unlimited Credential in Academic and Career studies, a postsecondary education certificate.
To learn more about the program and the application process, we encourage you to attend one of our upcoming Information Sessions.
Click here to register for an information session.
Contact Us
If you have questions about the application process, please reach out to the AHRC NYC Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program director for your borough of residence:
Manhattan and Queens Residents
Gianni Berry, Program Director
Phone: 347-370-2237
Email: gianni.berry@ahrcnyc.org
Bronx Residents
Shaquille Adams, Operations Director
Phone: 646-988-0472
Email: shaquille.adams@ahrcnyc.org
Brooklyn Residents
Evelyn Velez, Operations Director
Phone: 347-860-5678
Email: evelyn.velez@ahrcnyc.org
Staten Island Residents
Jennifer Litrell, Operations Director
Phone: 646-242-5076
Email: jennifer.litrell@ahrcnyc.org