New York State Higher Education Services Corporation Launches FAFSA Ready Training Program to Empower Counselors and Community Partners in Supporting Students with the College Financial Aid Process

New Program Another Tool in Facilitating Governor Hochul’s Universal FAFSA Completion Legislation

The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) today announced the launch of the New York State FAFSA Ready Training Program. This initiative aims to equip high school counselors, community partners, and support professionals with the resources, tools, and expertise necessary to assist students in completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), and DREAM Act applications.

As part of the program rollout, HESC is expanding partnerships with community organizations, including youth programs, nonprofit agencies, and local support networks, to connect more students with FAFSA completion assistance. These partnerships will strengthen the support system available to students by 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 training sessions, and resources that empower them to help students and families navigate the financial aid process. Training topics include:

FAFSA Completion InitiativeThis module provides participating schools with access to students’ FAFSA and TAP completion data, helping educators identify students who may be struggling to complete their applications. Counselors will learn to access and utilize FAFSA Completion Initiative data to support at-risk students effectively. This resource will also assist in achieving the goals of Governor Hochul’s Universal FAFSA Completion Legislation.

Supporting Students through Their FAFSADesigned to empower counselors and educators, this module offers a step-by-step walkthrough of the FAFSA application. It breaks down each section with clear explanations and actionable tips. The module also provides insights into common student challenges, such as data entry errors, verification requirements, and eligibility concerns, along with practical solutions.

NYS TAP and DREAM Act Applications

This module assists counselors and educators in supporting students seeking f inancial aid through the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) and the DREAM Act portal. It includes a detailed overview of both applications, step-by-step guidance on completing the TAP application, and information on eligibility for the DREAM Act. Tips on avoiding common errors are also provided.

Dr. Guillermo Linares, President of the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation, stated: "At HESC, our goal has always been to help students pay for college, and the NYS FAFSA Ready Training Program is another valuable tool in ensuring nothing stands between students and the financial aid they need to achieve their dreams. With Governor Hochul’s full support, we look forward to helping each student maximize their potential."

State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa added: "The State Education Department continues to move New York’s education system forward, preparing students for the opportunities they will encounter after high school. The NYS FAFSA Ready Training Program provides school counselors, community partners, and others with the tools needed to better understand and support students through the college financial aid process. This is an especially critical service for families new to the college application and admissions process."

SUNY Chancellor John B. King emphasized: "There is a place at SUNY for every New Yorker, and Governor Hochul’s Universal FAFSA initiative will enable more students to access financial aid and achieve their college dreams. HESC’s training programs – along with SUNY’s FAFSA Completion Corps and our partnership with the national nonprofit uAspire – will help school counselors, community-based organizations, and other partners provide students and families with the support they need. Together, we are committed to providing families with the affordable and high-quality education they deserve."

"The NYS FAFSA Ready Training Program is a comprehensive set of resources that will help more school counselors and educators guide students and their families through the process of applying for federal and state financial aid. CUNY thanks Governor Hochul and our partners at HESC for supporting our shared mission to empower more students to confidently pursue their college dreams."

In 2023, more than $225 million in federal financial aid went unclaimed by New York State students. The NYS FAFSA Ready Training Program aims to close this gap by equipping educators with the tools necessary to guide students through the financial aid application process. By increasing awareness and accessibility, this program will help more students secure the funding they need for higher education.

To register for training or for more information about the FAFSA Ready Training Program, visit hesc.ny.gov.