Governor Kathy Hochul Urges Students to Complete FAFSA and TAP Applications to Maximize Financial Aid

Strategic Insights -

To ensure access to higher education for all New Yorkers, 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. This effort aims to maximize the availability of student financial aid for the upcoming fall college semester. The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation, State University of New York (SUNY), and City University of New York (CUNY) are offering resources and support to help students complete these critical applications.

Key Takeaways:

  • Governor Kathy Hochul is urging students to complete both the FAFSA and TAP applications to maximize financial aid availability for the fall college semester.
  • The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation, SUNY, and CUNY are providing resources and support to help students complete these applications, including in-person and online FAFSA completion events, virtual financial aid resources, and one-on-one support.
  • New York students left over $200 million in federal aid unclaimed last year due to not submitting a FAFSA, which unlocks federal student aid, including Pell Grants, work-study opportunities, and federal student loans.
  • Governor Hochul's landmark Universal FAFSA legislation has resulted in New York ranking sixth in the nation for FAFSA completions, with 62% of high school seniors completing the form, compared to the national average of 56.5%.
  • Several New York State financial aid programs are now open for applications, including the NYS STEM Incentive Program, Excelsior Scholarship, and Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA).
  • The SUNY and CUNY Reconnect program offers free community college to adult learners, with over 16,500 New Yorkers having already applied to the program.

Statistics:

  • There is a significant jump from last year's FAFSA completion rate from 58.1% to 62% in the current year, reflecting Governor Hochul's efforts.
  • New York State ranks sixth in the nation for FAFSA completions.
  • Nearly 300,000 students receive grants, scholarships, or loan forgiveness from the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation each year.
  • The Part-Time TAP program has expanded opportunities for students who choose to pursue their degree on a part-time basis, offering financial aid to those enrolled in as few as three credits per term.

Sources:

  • Governor Kathy Hochul: News Release (no date provided)
  • New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (no date provided)
  • Senator Charles Schumer: "Higher Education is the Foundation for Success" (no date provided)
  • Representative John W. Mannion: "My Office is a Resource for Students and Families" (no date provided)