Students who lack a high school or a general equivalency diploma (GED) may apply for admission if their high school class has already graduated or they are at least 19 years of age. These students must take and meet the institution's standards on an Ability to Benefit test approved by the Deparment of Education.

Applicants who are admitted through this method may apply to New York State for an equivalency diploma after completion of 24 hours of college credits in these subject areas:
- Six (6) credits in english language arts including writing, speaking and reading (literature).
- Six (6) credits in mathmatics
- Three (3) credits in natural science
- Three (3) credits in social science
- Three (3) credits in humanities
- Three (3) credits in career and technical education and/or foreign languages