Advancing Completion through Engagement (ACE)

ACE at Buffalo State University is a comprehensive program designed to help students complete their academic journey to a bachelor’s degree on time. ACE provides a range of financial, academic, and personal support, including intensive academic advisement and career counseling, as well as tuition, textbook, and Bengal Bucks. 

Think of the Buffalo State ACE team as trusted guides to help you stay on track and graduate on time.

Three students in front of Rockwell Hall

What Makes ACE Unique

We are committed to your academic success and making college more affordable for you!

As a Buffalo State ACE student, you’ll receive:

  • Monthly Bengal Bucks deposit upon meeting program requirements
  • A Dedicated ACE Advisor to guide your progress from entry to graduation
  • Textbook Assistance to reduce (or eliminate) the cost of the textbook
  • Enhanced Career Development and Academic Support Services
  • Early Course Registration Options
  • A Cost of attendance award (for students in receipt of financial aid)
  • Winter/Summer Course Scholarships
  • Graduate School Preparation
  • 4 + 1 Pathway options and assistance 

Contact ACE Buffalo State University

Jude Jayatilleke

Jude A. Jayatilleke

ACE Director 

E-mail: jayatijm@buffalostate.edu

Office Phone (716) 878-6028

E. H. Butler Library 110A

Farden Allen

Fardan R. Allen

ACE Advisor

E-mail: allenfr@buffalostate.edu

Office Phone (716) 878-6028

E. H. Butler Library 110B

Program Expectations

What do I need to do?

  • Maintain full-time status (at least 15 credits or 5 courses each semester)
  • Enroll in courses during the Winter or Summer term, if 30 credits are not earned by the end of academic year
  • Meet individually with an ACE Advisor at least twice a month or as needed
  • Participate in all academic support and career development activities, at least once a month
  • Students must study in an approved ACE major and adhere to course schedule outlined by their advisor.
  • All ACE students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application each year. (Students under the New York Dream Act may be eligible to receive state aid, including TAP, Excelsior, and other state-administered scholarships)
  • Commit to graduating within four years (freshmen) and adhere to course schedules and degree maps outlined by your advisor.
Bengal with three students having a picture taken.
A group of four students

Eligibility

Advancing Completion through Engagement (ACE) Program eligibility criteria and majors.

Criteria

You may be eligible for ACE if you answer YES to the following questions:

  • Are you an incoming freshman, continuing student with 21 or less credits and a 2.0 cumulative GPA 
  • Are you a New York State resident and/or eligible for in-state tuition?
  • Completed the FAFSA using York College Code 002842 and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program application (TAP) using college code 0905)

Students who receive support through the Senator Jose Peralta NYS Dream Act or the Dream.US scholarship are also eligible.

Logo for ACE (Advancing Completion Through Engagement)