Students in New York are being urged to complete their FAFSA and TAP applications immediately to avoid missing out on critical college financial aid this fall. Governor Kathy Hochul is leading the charge, as millions in potential aid remain unclaimed each year.
Financial aid clock is ticking
Several major student aid deadlines are fast approaching:
- NYS STEM Incentive Program: Applications due August 15, 2025
- Excelsior Scholarship & Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA): Due August 31, 2025
- To qualify, students must first complete the FAFSA and TAP forms
Last year alone, New York students left over $200 million in federal student aid unclaimed because they didn’t submit a FAFSA.
Why FAFSA and TAP matter
Filing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the TAP (Tuition Assistance Program) application is the gateway to a wide range of federal and state aid:
- Federal grants like Pell Grants
- Work-study opportunities
- Federal student loans
- New York State aid programs including TAP, Excelsior, and the NYS STEM Incentive
Thanks to a new Universal FAFSA law championed by Governor Hochul, New York now ranks 6th nationally in FAFSA completions, up from 11th just a year ago.
Resources to help students apply
State agencies and universities are offering hands-on support:
- SUNY & CUNY FAFSA events: In-person and online help completing applications
- FAFSA Ready program: High school counselors trained to assist students
- Online tools: CUNY’s FAFSA Guide, HESC’s prescreening tool for eligibility
- One-on-one help: Available through the Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC)
Adult learners can also benefit through the SUNY and CUNY Reconnect Program, which offers free community college for New Yorkers aged 25–55 pursuing high-demand careers.
More flexible aid options now available
Governor Hochul’s administration has expanded Part-Time TAP, making financial aid accessible to students enrolled in as few as three credits per term. This change benefits students attending:
- SUNY
- CUNY
- Independent or proprietary colleges
What leaders are saying
Governor Hochul:
“By completing the FAFSA and TAP applications, students open the door to critical financial aid opportunities that can make college more affordable and achievable.”
SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr.:
“SUNY experts are helping students every step of the way with virtual tools, in-person events, and more.”
CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez:
“Completing these applications unlocks a world of resources that ensure access to a life-changing college education.”
Key takeaways
- FAFSA and TAP are open now—apply before August deadlines
- Support is available across New York, from high school to college
- New laws and expanded aid mean more New Yorkers qualify than ever
- Adult learners can apply for tuition-free community college through Reconnect
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