Students may apply each year for both federal student aid (FAFSA) and state aid (Excelsior Scholarship) if they meet the eligibility requirements. For more information on both aid programs, read the descriptions below.

FAFSA and NYS TAP Applications

Planning to attend college? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available online at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. The FAFSA is the first step in applying for financial aid.  Fill it out as soon as you can, out even if you haven't applied to any colleges yet!

Was your family’s New York State net taxable income $80,000 or less? You may also be eligible for the NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). Learn more by visiting the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation at https://www.hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/apply-for-financial-aid/nys-tap.html.  

Questions can be directed to [email protected].

The FAFSA is the source of all federal and state aid, loans, and work-study programs. The form must be filled out and submitted to colleges by their due dates in order to be eligible for these programs.

 

FAFSA on the Web Worksheets 

The number of FAFSAs (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) filed electronically has increased dramatically. In preparation for completing the FAFSA on the Web application, Web Worksheets are now available. The FAFSA on the Web Worksheet is an optional tool and is not an official FAFSA. There is no requirement that it be used before completing the FAFSA on the Web application. However, it is a useful tool for gathering the information needed to complete the Web application. It is also important to note that the Worksheet cannot be submitted to the Department of Education for processing since it does not have all of the information needed to establish eligibility, nor does it include the required certifications and signatures. 

 

FAFSA on the Web Worksheets are available in the High School Counseling Office, online at FAFSA® Worksheet | Federal Student Aid, or by phone at 1-800-4-FED-AID. 

 

Applying Is Easy As 1 - 2 - 3...

 

The Federal Student Aid PIN was replaced by the FSA ID on May 10, 2015. The new FSA ID consists of a user-created username and password to electronically access personal information on Federal Student Aid websites, including FAFSA on the Web. You can use your FSA ID immediately to sign your FAFSA, but must wait for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to verify your information before you can use the FSA ID to create a renewal FAFSA or make corrections to your FAFSA. For more information, visit What is an FSA ID, and will I need it to complete the FAFSA® form? | Federal Student Aid.

 

Apply for Federal Aid (FAFSA)

FAFSA® Application | Federal Student Aid 

Sign this using your FSA ID

Don't close this page!  Go directly to Step #3

 

After submitting the FAFSA, click on the New York State Resident link and apply for State Aid (TAP). This will take you to the NYS Higher Education Website, https://www.hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/apply-for-financial-aid/nys-tap.html

 

Complete CSS Profile Form (if required by your college)

 

Apply for Institutional Scholarships

 

The New York State Excelsior Scholarship application for new applicants is open. This is for eligible students attending public SUNY and CUNY colleges. Visit https://www.hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/financial-aid/types-of-financial-aid/nys-grants-scholarships-awards/the-excelsior-scholarship.html for more information and to find out how to apply.

The New York State Enhanced Tuition Award application for new applicants is open. This is for students attending participating NYS private colleges. Visit NYS Higher Education Services Corporation - Enhanced Tuition Awards for more information and to find out how to apply.