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2026-27 Student Aid Guide

The newest FAFSA is now open! Apply ASAP to maximize free aid opportunities. Explore the tips and resources below to learn how you can minimize your educational costs.

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Unlocking federal and state student aid to make college more affordable takes six easy steps:

  1. Create your StudentAid.gov Account
  2. Complete the FAFSA
  3. Apply for State Aid
  4. Search and Apply for Scholarships
  5. Evaluate and Compare Financial Aid Award Letters
  6. Ask Colleges for More Aid

Scroll down for more guidance and resources pertaining to each step. And if you live in New York, schedule a free, one-on-one virtual session with an EDCAP counselor. We can provide you with personalized assistance at each of the stages to maximize your financial aid outcomes and go to college with less debt.

Step 1: Create Your StudentAid.gov Account

Establish your StudentAid.gov account (commonly referred to as an FSA ID) to access key resources and track your federal financial aid throughout your academic journey.

Before starting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), both you and the parent who provided the most financial support must create separate StudentAid.gov accounts. These accounts are required for signing and submitting your FAFSA.

  1. Visit studentaid.gov and click on “Create Account.”
  2. Provide Personal Information:
    • Email address, mailing address, and mobile phone number
    • Tip: You and your parent must each have a separate email account. Avoid using a high school email account.
  3. Set Up Challenge Questions: Choose answers that are easy to remember and unlikely to change over time.
  4. Verify Your Contact Information: Enter the validation codes sent to your mobile number and email, or set up an authenticator app.
  5. Save Your Information: Write down your login details and backup codes in a secure place for both you and your parent.

Step 2: Complete the FAFSA

Submit the FAFSA as early as possible to determine your eligibility for federal funds, including Pell Grants, federal loans, and Federal Work-Study. Many states and colleges also use FAFSA information to award their own grants and scholarships, so completing it early can open the door to additional aid and make your education more affordable.

The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal financial aid, which can significantly reduce your college expenses. Many scholarships, state aid programs, and institutions also rely on your FAFSA results when deciding on additional aid.

To maximize your financial aid, submit your FAFSA as early as possible. The application is now open for the 2026-27 academic year, and some forms of aid are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Be mindful of both federal and state deadlines to ensure you qualify for the maximum amount available.

  • Create a StudentAid.gov account: You and your parent (if applicable) each need your own account.
  • Gather Required Documents: You’ll need your Social Security number, federal income tax returns, W-2s, bank statements, and other relevant financial information. Click here for a checklist
  • Complete the FAFSA Online: Go to studentaid.gov to fill out and submit your FAFSA.

Once you’ve submitted the FAFSA and your application is processed, you will have access to your FAFSA Submission Summary. The Submission Summary will show you your anticipated aid, school information, and how to make changes to your FAFSA Form. It will include your Student Aid Index (SAI) number, which your college or university’s financial aid office uses to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Review your FAFSA Form answers carefully to ensure all information is accurate, as schools rely on this report to calculate your aid package. Make any necessary corrections, and watch for updates from the schools you’re considering.

There are many guides from trusted sources. Here are a few you can explore:

Step 3: Apply for State Aid

Research and apply for any state-specific financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, and loans, to maximize your funding options.

In addition to federal aid, many states offer financial assistance to help students cover educational costs. By applying for state-specific grants, scholarships, and loans, you can maximize your funding options and potentially reduce the need for other forms of borrowing.

State aid programs are often designed to support local students in reaching their educational goals, making them a valuable resource. Many states prioritize funding for residents attending in-state schools, and some programs may cover a significant portion of tuition or other college costs.

Research State Programs: Visit your state’s higher education website to explore available financial aid programs, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines. Each state’s offerings vary and can include grants, merit- or need-based scholarships, and low-interest loans.

Meet Deadlines: State aid deadlines are often earlier than federal deadlines, so it’s crucial to apply on time. Some states operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so the sooner you apply, the better your chances of receiving aid.

Complete Additional Applications: Some state programs may require a separate application beyond the FAFSA, such as a state aid application or specific scholarship forms. Carefully follow the application instructions to ensure you submit all necessary documents.

Once you apply, keep an eye out for any communication from your state’s financial aid office or your chosen schools regarding your state aid status. Some aid packages may be awarded in combination with federal and institutional aid, which could increase your overall support and reduce the need for loans.

State aid is an important part of funding your education. Take the time to explore these resources and apply early to make the most of your financial aid opportunities!

New York State offers several financial aid programs designed to make college more affordable for residents. Key programs include:

  • Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): Provides grants to eligible New York residents attending in-state colleges, based on financial need. TAP awards can cover a portion of tuition costs, helping to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. To see which schools accept TAP, visit HESC’s TAP School Codes webpage. 
  • Excelsior Scholarship: This program enables eligible students to attend SUNY and CUNY schools tuition-free. Applicants must meet specific residency and income requirements and commit to living in New York after graduation.
  • Enhanced Tuition Awards (ETA): For students attending private colleges in New York, ETAs provide up to $6,000 in financial assistance, combining state awards with contributions from participating institutions.
  • Other Programs: New York also offers additional support for part-time students, military veterans, and specific fields of study, including STEM and teaching.

To apply for New York State aid, complete the FAFSA and then submit the New York State Aid Application through the Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) website at hesc.ny.gov.

The New York State DREAM Act grants access to state financial aid for undocumented students and others previously ineligible due to immigration status. Eligible students can apply for key programs, including:

  • Tuition Assistance Program (TAP): Grants to help cover tuition.
  • Excelsior Scholarship: Tuition-free education at SUNY and CUNY schools.
  • Enhanced Tuition Awards (ETA): Financial aid for students attending private New York colleges.
  • Other State Scholarships and Grants: Additional awards based on specific criteria, such as career path and academic achievements.

Eligibility Requirements
Students generally qualify if they:

  1. Graduated from a New York high school or earned a state equivalency diploma.
  2. Have lived in New York State for at least one year prior to applying.
  3. Are ineligible for federal financial aid due to immigration status.

How to Apply
Apply through the NYS DREAM Act application on the HESC website. The process is secure and confidential, and HESC offers resources to guide you.The NYS DREAM Act makes higher education more accessible to all New Yorkers—explore your options today!

The Alternate Eligibility Pathway allows U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens who prefer not to complete the FAFSA for privacy reasons to access New York State financial aid. Eligible students may qualify for New York State programs, such as the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and other state scholarships.

Students cannot receive the following through this pathway:

  • Excelsior Scholarship
  • Enhanced Tuition Awards (ETA)
  • Any federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study, or federal student loans.

Eligibility Requirements

Students generally qualify if they:

  1. Are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens.
  2. Prefer not to complete the FAFSA due to privacy concerns.
  3. Want to apply for only New York State financial aid programs.

How to Apply

Apply through the Alternate Eligibility Pathway application on the HESC website. The process is secure and confidential.

Explore whether the Alternate Eligibility Pathway is the right fit for you by using HESC’s pathway prescreening tool.

Step 4: Search and Apply for Scholarships

Scholarships are free money for college. Every dollar you earn reduces what you may need to borrow.

Students can find local scholarships through:

  • High schools
  • Local businesses
  • Community organizations
  • Religious or cultural groups

Applying widely is key. Even small awards add up, and staying organized will help you keep track of deadlines and requirements.

  • Tailor your essays to reflect the scholarship’s mission or values.
  • Proofread carefully and ask someone you trust to review your application.
  • Follow all instructions – missing a step can disqualify you.
  • Avoid scams: you should never pay to apply.
  • Check your email regularly for updates or requests for more information.

Step 5: Evaluate and Compare Your Award Letters

Once you receive financial aid offers from schools, carefully compare the award letters to understand the mix of loans, grants, scholarships, and out-of-pocket costs before making a final decision. When you receive financial aid offers, review each award letter to understand the breakdown of loans, grants, scholarships, and any out-of-pocket costs. Comparing these details helps you make an informed decision by identifying which schools provide the best financial fit for your needs.

Evaluate the expected charges and financial aid at each school by reviewing:

  • Total Cost of Attendance: Tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, and other expenses
  • Net Cost: Total cost minus grants, scholarships, family contributions, and federal loans
  • Long‑Term Borrowing Costs: Use the Federal Student Aid Loan Simulator to estimate the lifetime cost of any loans you may need to take

Understanding these details helps you make an informed, confident decision about which college is the most affordable option for you

Step 6: Ask Colleges for More Aid

Many colleges will review your financial aid packages if your circumstances have changed or if you receive a stronger offer from another school. Reaching out can make a real difference, especially when you clearly explain your situation.

Students commonly request additional aid when they experience:

  • A strong commitment to attending if they aid package improves
  • A change in family finances
  • A better financial aid offer from another college
  • Unexpected expenses, such as medical or housing costs

When contacting a financial aid office, consider asking:

  1. Can my financial aid offer be reconsidered based on my situation or new information?
  2. Is there a process to appeal my award or submit additional documentation?
  3. Are there other scholarships or grants I can apply for through the college?

Asking for more aid is a normal part of the process. Advocating for yourself can help make college more affordable.

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