Why New York’s Governor Is Writing Letters to High Schoolers

New York Governor Kathy Hochul is on a mission to help the completion rates for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Governor Hochul is doing what she can by personally sending letters to high school seniors in New York State. She wants students to fill out the FAFSA so they can get federal and state aid for their higher education.

According to the Governor's office, last year over $200 million in federal aid was unclaimed by New York high school students because they didn't fill out the FAFSA. FAFSA submission rates in the state have dropped by almost 25% and the governor wants everyone to know that help is available

The Governor's office along with the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC), City University of New York (CUNY), State University of New York (SUNY), are working to get even more money to New York State students.

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Resources are available to students and families to help them with the financial aid application process. Visit this website to learn about upcoming events and information services in their communities. Current college students who have already done this can also get help and have their questions answered.

Several events are being held with the help from SUNY, CUNY, HESC, and other institutions, to make sure that high school students get the financial support they need for college.

The events include information sessions, virtual drop-ins with experts on financial aid and scholarships, and info about available scholarships. Get the full line-up schedule of events here.

Studies show that students who fill out the FAFSA are more likely to attend college. In fact, 90% of high school seniors who complete the FAFSA go on to college right after graduation, compared to 55% of seniors who don't fill out the aid application.