Published
HESC Counselor Newsletter - February 2025
The 2025-26 FAFSA and NYS TAP applications are now available for students!
- Students can access the TAP application through the state aid link at the end of the FAFSA submission If they missed the link, they can apply at hesc.ny.gov/NYSTAP.
- DREAM Act eligible students can submit their TAP application through the NYS DREAM Act portal.
- HESC offers FAFSA/TAP Completion Events to help students through their applications.
Upcoming Financial Aid Presentations and Workshops:
NYS TAP and DREAM Act Completion:
This virtual seminar will cover the NYS DREAM Act and TAP applications, including eligibility, access, and a step-by-step walkthrough of both applications, along with tips to help students complete the applications.
Empowering High School Counselors for FAFSA Success:
Join us for an informative virtual high school counselor workshop - Presented by HESC & NYSFAAA and designed to provide key updates and practical guidance for high school counselors.
Thursday, January 30 - 9:30a - 11:30a
Financial Aid for Foster Care Youth:
Youth currently or formerly in foster care may qualify for college financial aid. Join HESC to explore grants, loans, and scholarships that can support their journey to higher education.
Wednesday, February 19 - 6:00p
Senior Basics Presentation :
HESC’s Senior Basics Presentation gives high school seniors the essential tools and information they need to apply for financial aid and prepare for higher education.
Every Tuesday & Thursday - 6:00p
Available in Spanish
Creating a StudentAid.gov Account:
Creating a StudentAid.gov account (FSA ID) is the first step toward accessing federal student financial aid. This 15-minute presentation will guide students through the quick and easy process of setting up their accounts.
Monday, February 3, 2025 - 4:00p - 4:30 pm
Available in Spanish
HESC Virtual Drop-in:
Students can connect with HESC experts to get answers to all their financial aid questions.
Every Wednesday – 2:00p – 4:00p
DREAM Act Support Session:
Students can get personalized assistance with their DREAM Act financial aid application. Students are welcome to drop in at any time during session hours to receive secure, personalized, one-on-one support.
Monday, February 10, 2025 - 5:00p - 7:30p
If you have questions regarding the TAP/FAFSA or about any upcoming event, please contact [email protected].
FAFSA Ready Training Program:
- NYS FAFSA Ready Training Program is an all-new initiative designed to equip participants with the tools and knowledge needed to support students through the financial aid process.
- Topics include the FAFSA Completion Initiative, guiding students through their FAFSA, understanding NYS DREAM Act eligibility, and completing the TAP application.
- Participants can choose to join live training sessions or access the latest recorded version at their convenience.
2025 Scholarships for Academic Excellence: Nominate Your Students Today!
It’s time to nominate your students for the annual Scholarships for Academic Excellence (SAE). This year, all nominations must be submitted electronically through the SEDMON application in the NYSED Business Portal.
Important Details:
- Deadline for submission is February 28, 2025.
- Initial access to the SAE Nomination Survey is granted to the School District Superintendent/CEO.
- The survey can be found under “SED Monitoring and Vendor System” and listed as SAE within OPASS.
- Access must be delegated by your district’s designated SEDREF point person via SEDDAS.
For guidance on accessing the survey, visit the SAE website for helpful documents, including the cover letter, FAQ, and bulletin.
Need Help? Contact [email protected] with any questions.
Act Now! Submit your nominations before the deadline.
Stay Connected with HESC Updates
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