A guide to the opportunities at private colleges and universities in New York State through the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) is presented. The HEOP is designed to meet the special needs of students from disadvantaged backgrounds through screening, testing, counseling, tutoring, teaching, and financial assistance. Generally, students in opportunity programs are low income with a high potential for success in college, but who have not acquired the academic skills needed. Information is provided on: HEOP eligibility; application; the summer program; remedial and developmental courses; tutorial services; academic, personal, and career counseling; financial aid; and economic eligibility criteria for HEOP. Entering students usually are required to participate in a pre-freshman summer program that orients the student to college life, initiates a program of academic skills-building, and acquaints the student with services available through HEOP. Students can take credit and noncredit remedial/developmental courses. Colleges participating in HEOP programs in New York State are listed, including school addresses and phone numbers. A Spanish-language version of the guide is also provided. (SW)