Financial Aid

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA):

Every student attending college should fill this form out in October of their senior year.  This is the form which determines eligibility for all federal financial aid programs.

NYS Higher Education Service Corporation:

New York State residents should also complete TAP on the Web.  Use the link on the FAFSA confirmation page to go to TAP on the web.  You can also can more information on the site below.

Excelsior Scholarship Application:

This scholarship, in combination with other financial aid programs, may allow students to attend a SUNY or CUNY college tuition-free.

Glossary of Financial Aid Terms

Award Letter - An official document from the college that lists all the financial aid awarded to the student.

Cost of Attendance-   The total amount it will cost a student to attend school.  This includes tuition and fees, room and board, books, supplies, transportation costs, and personal expenses.

Expected Family Contribution (EFC) - The amount the federal government estimates a family should contribute to the cost f a student’s college education.

Federal Direct Loans -  Educational loans provided through the US Department of Education.  The loan limit for a freshman is currently $5,500.

Subsidized Loan - A loan that is based upon need.  The government pays the interest for you while you are in school at least half-time.

Unsubsidized Loan- A loan that is not based upon need.  Interest start to accumulate from the time an unsubsidized loan is disbursed until you pay the loan in full.

Financial Aid Package - The total amount of financial assistance a student receives, including grants, scholarships, work-study and loans, as listed in the college’s financial aid award letter.

Student Aid Report (SAR) - This report is produced once the government has processed your FAFSA application.  It will inform you of your Expected Family Contribution (EFC).