The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) has announced the launch of the New York State FAFSA Ready Training Program. The new program aims to equip high school counselors, community partners, and support professionals with the resources, tools, and expertise to support students in completing their FAFSA, New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), and the DREAM Act applications.
As part of the rollout, HESC is working to broaden its partnerships with community organizations, including youth programs, nonprofit agencies, and local support networks, to connect more students with FAFSA completion assistance. These partnerships will foster a stronger support system for students, enabling them to work with local allies who understand their unique needs and challenges.
The NYS FAFSA Ready Training Program provides educators and other partners with dedicated events, live trainings and resources that enable them to help students and families understand their financial aid options and troubleshoot common issues during the application process. Training topics include:
•FAFSA Completion Initiative: Provides participating schools with access to their students’ FAFSA and TAP completion data and helps them identify those students who may be struggling to complete their FAFSA applications. This module will guide counselors through accessing and utilizing data from the FAFSA Completion Initiative to identify at-risk students and explore strategies to help them successfully complete their applications. This can also serve as a resourceful tool in meeting goals toward Governor Hochul’s Universal FAFSA Completion Legislation.
•Supporting Students through their FAFSA: Designed to empower counselors and educators in guiding students through every phase of the FAFSA application process. It offers a step-by-step walkthrough of the application, breaking down each section with clear explanations and actionable tips. The module also provides up-to-date insights on common challenges students face, such as data entry errors, verification requirements, and eligibility concerns, along with practical workarounds and solutions.
•NYS TAP and DREAM Act Applications: Provides help for counselors and educators supporting students in accessing financial aid through the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and the DREAM Act portal. This includes a detailed overview of both applications, including step-by-step guidance on accessing and completing the TAP application and identifying which students should apply through the DREAM Act. The module also explains eligibility requirements and offers tips for avoiding common errors.
New York State Higher Education Services Corporation President Dr. Guillermo Linares said, “At HESC, our goal has always been to help students pay for college, and NYS FAFSA Ready Training Program is another wonderful tool in our toolbox to ensure nothing stands between students and the financial aid they need to achieve their dreams. Together with the Governor’s full support, we look forward to helping each student maximize their potential.”
In 2023, more than $225 million in federal financial aid was left unclaimed by NYS students. The NYS FAFSA Ready Training Program will serve as an important resource to help educators bridge the gap between the student application experience and access to the vital financial aid they need to achieve their higher education goals.
To register for training or for more information on the FAFSA Ready Training Program, visit http://hesc.ny.gov.
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