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College Application Initiative

For decades, HESC has helped students and families access financial aid programs that make higher education more affordable and attainable.

Supporting Student Success Across New York State

1974

TAP Established

$31 Billion

Financial Aid Awarded

6.3 Million

New Yorkers Assisted 

2026 CAI Registration is Now Open for HS Counselors!

Attention HS Counselors!

We need your partnership to reach more students than ever before. Sign up to participate in the 2026 College Application Initiative. We truly appreciate your continued support in guiding students toward higher education. Your work makes a real difference in their futures.

  • Site Coordinators

    Access planning tools, promotional materials, handbooks, and reporting resources.

  • Participating Colleges

    View participating institutions waiving application fees during the College Application Initiative.

Students

The College Application Initiative (CAI) will run from October to November this year. HESC has teamed up with SUNY, CUNY, CICU, APC, and NCAN to help students navigate the college application process during CAI. View and download these resources to help guide you through the college application process.

Get Started Now

Freshman Checklist
Sophomore Checklist
Junior Checklist
Senior Checklist
College Planning Resources

College Application Worksheet
You'll have a much easier time completing your applications if you complete the appropriate worksheet or review the relevant websites below ahead of time. This will help you ensure that the information you need is collected and recorded in one place.

What to Bring to Your College Application Initiative Event

  • List of colleges you are applying to and deadline information.
  • Completed application worksheet/notes from video or web page.
  • Flash drive with your essay, resume, and other required work.
  • Credit/debit card number (including expiration date and security code), or application fee waiver/deferral
  • Copy of your Green Card, if you have one.

College Search Resources
SUNY Colleges
CUNY Colleges

 

Common Application
SUNY Application
CUNY Application
Participating Colleges Waiving Application Fees
Application Fee Waivers

 

FIND AID
FAFSA Contributor Information
Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
Excelsior Scholarship
New York State Scholarships
Alternate Pathways to Financial Aid
NYS DREAM Act
STEM Incentive Program

Compare Financial Aid Awards
Understanding Your Financial Aid Package
Enrollment & College Preparation Resources
Student Loan Information
HESC Events & Workshops

Additional Resources

Questions about College Application Initiative?

Feel free to contact New York State Higher Education Services Corporation with any question you may have.

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