Starting in the 2021-2022 school year, high school students in New York will be required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to graduate. This new mandate is aimed at increasing college accessibility and affordability for students throughout the state.
The FAFSA is a form that students must fill out in order to receive federal financial aid for college, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. By requiring all students to complete the FAFSA, New York aims to ensure that every student has the opportunity to access the financial aid they need to pursue higher education.
While the new requirement may seem daunting to some students and families, there is an option to opt out if they do not wish to provide their financial information. However, opting out means that students will not be eligible for any form of state-funded financial aid, including the popular Excelsior Scholarship.
The Excelsior Scholarship is a program that provides free tuition to eligible students attending a public college or university in New York. In order to qualify for the Excelsior Scholarship, students must complete the FAFSA and meet other eligibility requirements. By requiring all students to complete the FAFSA, New York hopes to increase the number of students who are able to take advantage of this valuable financial aid opportunity.
The new requirement is part of a broader effort by the state to increase college affordability and access for all students. Governor Andrew Cuomo has been a vocal advocate for making higher education more accessible, and this new FAFSA requirement is just one of many initiatives aimed at achieving that goal.
In a statement announcing the new requirement, Governor Cuomo emphasized the importance of helping students navigate the financial aid process. “Completing the FAFSA can be a daunting task for many students and families, but it is a critical step in accessing the financial aid they need to attend college,” Cuomo said. “By requiring all students to complete the FAFSA, we are helping to ensure that every student has the opportunity to pursue their dreams of higher education.”
Overall, the new FAFSA requirement in New York is a positive development for students and families. By making it easier for students to access financial aid, the state is taking a significant step towards increasing college affordability and access for all students. Whether students choose to complete the FAFSA or opt out, this new requirement is sure to have a positive impact on the future of higher education in New York.
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