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Governor Hochul Urges Students to Complete FAFSA and TAP Applications for Maximized Student Financial Aid

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

As the fall college semester approaches, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul is urging students to complete both the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) and the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application to maximize the availability of student financial aid. The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), the State University of New York (SUNY), and the City University of New York (CUNY) have events, resources, and hands-on support to help students complete these critical applications and access the financial aid for which they are eligible.

Key Takeaways:

  • The FAFSA and TAP applications are crucial for unlocking federal and state financial aid, including Pell Grants, work-study opportunities, and federal student loans.
  • Last year, New York students left over $200 million in federal aid unclaimed due to not submitting a FAFSA.
  • Governor Hochul's landmark Universal FAFSA legislation has improved New York's ranking to sixth in the nation for FAFSA completions, with 62% of high school seniors having completed the form, compared to the national average of 56.5%.
  • Resources are available to help students and families navigate the financial aid process, including virtual and in-person FAFSA and TAP completion events, online FAFSA guides, and specialized training for high school counselors.
  • SUNY and CUNY Reconnect programs offer free community college to adult learners, with over 16,500 New Yorkers already applying, highlighting the success of the program and the importance of supporting adult learners in high-demand fields.
  • New York State is committed to ensuring that students and families have the guidance and support they need to successfully navigate the financial aid process, with HESC providing three pathways for applying and a quick and easy prescreening tool to determine the best option.

Statistics:

  • Over $200 million in federal aid was left unclaimed by New York students last year due to not submitting a FAFSA.
  • New York currently ranks sixth in the nation for FAFSA completions, with 62% of high school seniors having completed the form, compared to the national average of 56.5%.
  • Over 16,500 New Yorkers have already applied to the SUNY and CUNY Reconnect program, highlighting its success in supporting adult learners in high-demand fields.

Sources:

  • Governor Kathy Hochul
  • New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC)
  • State University of New York (SUNY)
  • City University of New York (CUNY)
  • New York State Education Department Commissioner Betty A. Rosa
  • Senator Charles Schumer
  • Representative John W. Mannion
  • SUNY Chancellor John B. King, Jr.
  • CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez

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