HESC Counselor Newsletter - March 2024

Published

2024-25 TAP Application
The 2024-25 TAP application is open now through June 30, 2025. Students who saved their TAP application prior to submitting their 2024-25 FAFSA need to complete their FAFSA and submit their saved TAP before it can be processed.

2024-25 FAFSA Updates

  • Despite the rocky 2024-25 FAFSA opening, many students and parents have completed and submitted the application. Students are highly encouraged to complete and submit their 2024-25 FAFSA as early as possible.
  • Currently, FSA is expected to start processing 2024-25 FAFSA forms in mid-March.
  • FSA keeps an updated list of known FAFSA Issues. This is a great resource for troubleshooting and possible solutions to issues students may encounter.
  • Due to the delay in FAFSA processing, many colleges are extending their deadlines. Students should contact the colleges to inquire about their deadline policy or to inform them about any difficulties they’re having with the FAFSA form.

Upcoming Financial Aid Presentations and Workshops
Please share these upcoming events in March with your students and parents.

What Juniors Need to Know about Financial Aid
This presentation will guide high school juniors and their families through the college financial aid process. We'll explore the various financial aid programs New York State offers to help juniors better understand their options and make the best decisions possible for their college goals.

Tuesday, March 12 @ 6pm
Thursday, March 14 @ 6pm
Tuesday, March 19 @ 6pm
Tuesday, March 21 @ 6pm

Common FAFSA & TAP Errors
Understanding the common FAFSA and TAP application mistakes and how to avoid them can save you time and stress when applying for financial aid. Join the HESC experts as we break down the most common application errors and how to make updates once your applications have been processed.

Monday, March 11 @ 4pm
Friday, March 15 @ 4pm
Monday, March 18 @ 4pm
Friday, March 22 @ 4pm
Monday, March 25 @ 4pm

HESC Virtual Drop-in
Drop in to connect with HESC experts to get answers to all your financial aid questions during one of our Virtual Drop-In Lounge sessions. Our team can answer your questions on applying for financial aid, the types of aid you may qualify for, how to get started, and more.

Wednesday, March 13 @ 2-5pm
Wednesday, March 20 @2-5pm
Wednesday, March 27 @ 2-5pm
Wednesday, April 3 @ 2-5pm

Comparing College Award Letters Panel
Join HESC on Thursday, March 28 @ 6pm to learn how to compare offers from different schools and compare key details like cost, grants, scholarships, work-study, and loan options. Understanding these details will help you and your family to make informed choices about affordability and choose the path that best fits your goals.
 

Scholarship Panel Event
Scholarships are an incredible source of financial assistance for college students. Unlike loans, scholarships are free money. That means students don’t have to pay them back! Join our expert financial aid panel on Thursday, April 11 @ 6pm as we walk you through what scholarships are, when they’re available, where to find them, and how to apply. 

Have questions? We’re here to help!
If you have questions regarding the TAP/FAFSA or about any upcoming event, please contact [email protected].         

Get Connected to the Resources Students Need
HESC Text can send students and parents text messages with vital information on financial aid, crucial deadlines, and valuable resources to help put them on the right path toward their college careers. Sign-up is quick and easy at www.hesc.ny.gov/hesctext