Published
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 SED Monitoring application in the NYSED Business Portal. Important Details:
- Deadline for submission is March 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.
The 2025-26 FAFSA and TAP Applications Are Now Open!
- Students can access the NYS TAP application through the state aid link at the end of the FAFSA submission process. If they missed the link, they can apply through the TAP information page.
- DREAM Act eligible students can submit their TAP application through the NYS DREAM Act portal.
- FAFSA/TAP Completion Events to help students complete their applications.
FAFSA Ready Training Program
The FAFSA Ready Training Program is a new training series designed to help high school counselors, educators, and community partners guide students and families through the financial aid process.
Topics include:
- FAFSA Completion Initiative
- Supporting Students Through FAFSA
- NYS DREAM Act Eligibility
- The NYS TAP Application
- Students with Special Circumstances
Each session includes FAQs, video walkthroughs, and downloadable guides to support student success. Sign up for a live training session or watch the latest recorded session on demand.
Upcoming Financial Aid Presentations and Workshops:
- Understanding Financial Aid
Learn about the different sources of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans, and discover how to navigate the process to make higher education more affordable.
Monday, March 3, 2025 – 6:00p
- FAFSA and TAP Applications: What and Why?
You’ve submitted your college applications—now it’s time to secure financial aid! Learn how to complete the FAFSA and TAP applications to ensure you’re on track for funding.
Wednesday, March 12, 2025 - 6:00p
Wednesday, March 19, 2025 - 6:00p
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 - 6:00p
- Exploring Job Training and Other Pathways After High School
College isn’t the only option! Learn about non-traditional pathways such as trade and vocational schools, apprenticeships, and community college programs that lead to career success.
Thursday, March 20, 2025 - 6:00p
- DREAM Act Support Session
Students can get one-on-one assistance with their DREAM Act financial aid application. Drop in anytime during session hours for secure, personalized support.
Monday, March 3, 2025 - 5:00p – 7:30p
- Senior Basics Presentation
This essential presentation gives high school seniors the tools and knowledge they need to apply for financial aid and prepare for higher education.
Every Tuesday & Thursday - 6:00p
- 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 walks students through the simple account setup process. Available in Spanish
- HESC Virtual Drop-in Sessions
Connect with HESC experts to get answers to all your financial aid questions in our Virtual Drop-in lounge.
Every Wednesday – 2:00p – 4:00p
Stay Connected with HESC Updates
Encourage your students and parents to sign up to receive text message updates with essential financial aid information, key deadlines, and helpful resources that can help keep them on track for college success!