New Application Pathway for NYS Financial Aid

Dear Colleagues,

New York State continues to take meaningful steps to ensure that all students have access to an affordable, high-quality college education, regardless of their family’s immigration or citizenship status.

With a commitment to sensitivity, security, and access, the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) has launched a new application pathway for eligible students who are U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens who do not want to complete a FAFSA due to concerns related to the privacy of their information, but want to apply for New York State financial aid.

This application offers a clear and secure pathway for impacted students to access many New York State grants and scholarships, including the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), without requiring them to complete the FAFSA.

While this path provides access to many New York State financial aid programs, it’s important to note that students who apply for state-funded financial aid through this path, will not be eligible for the NYS Excelsior Scholarship or the Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA) program, both of which require a completed FAFSA as part of their application process. They will also not be eligible for federal financial aid, including the Pell Grant, Federal Work-Study, and federal student loans, unless they submit a FAFSA.

Updated guidance, eligibility criteria, and FAQs are available on the application information page. We encourage you to review these resources and share them with students and families who may benefit from them.

HESC will host an update meeting on May 29, 2025, to provide a full overview of the new pathway, share training opportunities, answer questions, and discuss how we can work together to support students and families throughout the process.

Together, we can ensure every student in New York has the opportunity to pursue higher education, regardless of background or circumstances.

Sincerely,

New York State Higher Education Services Corporation