What is FAFSA?
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a form used by higher education institutions to determine if a student is eligible for federal, state and institution-sponsored financial aid. This includes grants, work-study programs and educational loans. You can apply online here.
Who is eligible?
Please visit the FAFSA eligibility criteria site to determine if you are eligible. Additional information for non-US citizens can be found here.
When should I apply for FAFSA?
The application process opens October 1st and closes June 30th, and needs to be completed annually, starting in the final year of high school. Applicants are strongly encouraged to complete their forms early.
What do I need to fill my FAFSA form?
To start the FAFSA application, you and your parent or guardian will need to request a FAFSA ID at least a week in advance of when you plan on completing the FAFSA form.
In order to complete the form, you will also need the tax and income information for your parent or legal guardian. We strongly encourage you to complete the form together. For more information about this and the complete list of documents, click here.
How do I file for FAFSA?
Visit the FAFSA Site and follow the instructions. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your high school counselor. The United States Department of Education also provides online and phone assistance.
Loans
Loans are money a student or their parents or guardian borrow to pay for higher education. They must be paid back, with interest, after the student graduates from college.
The US Department of Education provides loans and interest rates vary, as well as the amount they lend to any given student based on their FAFSA form. To learn more about federal student loans, click here.
New York State Financial Aid: Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
New York State provides financial aid to students to help supplement the cost of college. New York State resident attending college in New York State can apply for Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). TAP Awards can be up to $5,165 annually and because they are grants they do not have to be paid back. Learn more about TAP.
Are undocumented students eligible for TAP?
Yes, through the newly enacted José Peralta New York State DREAM Act, undocumented students can now receive state financial aid. To learn more about eligibility and to apply, click here.
New York State Scholarships and Grants
There are several grants available for New York residents studying in the state of New York. Unlike loans, grants do not have to be paid back. The criteria for grants varies as some seek to benefit first-generation college students while others support students in certain areas of study. Click here to learn more about grants, scholarships, and loans.
