To qualify for the HEOP program, applicants must be residents of New York State and demonstrate both academic and economic need. Applicants are either referred by an admissions counselor, or may indicate on their admissions application that they are interested in being considered for HEOP. Economic eligibility is determined by income guidelines issued by the New York State Education Department.

Since SAT scores may not thoroughly reflect a student's potential for success at Polytechnic, an intake interview with each applicant is an essential part of the HEOP admissions process. During the interview a HEOP staff member will discuss the applicant's academic strengths and weaknesses, and give a basic overview of what to expect at Polytechnic.