How to Apply for Aid
Applying for aid can seem like a challenge, so we have identified the steps to make the process easier. As an applicant, it is important to submit appropriate application materials and documentation.
2025-26 FAFSA Now Open
The 2025-2026 FAFSA is now open — apply today for financial aid! Secure the funds you need for college by completing the FAFSA. Whether you're a new or returning student, this is the essential first step to qualify for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
Step 1: Create Your FSA User ID
- Request a FSA User ID for yourself and all contributors (spouse, parent, step-parent, etc.)
- Note: Your FSA User ID will be verified and ready for use within 3 days
Resources to Get Started
- Create Account | Federal Student Aid
- Create and Access Your StudentAid.gov Account (youtube.com)
- How Do I Create a StudentAid.gov Account If I Don’t Have a Social Security Number? (youtube.com)
- Who Is a Contributor on the 2024–25 FAFSA Form? (youtube.com)
Step 2: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Students Starting Fall 2024 or Spring 2025
- Complete the 2024-25 FAFSA — Ensure you have 2022 tax year information and your FSA User IDs.
Students Starting Summer or Fall 2025
- Complete the 2025-26 FAFSA — Ensure you have 2023 tax year information and your FSA User IDs.
Resources to File Your FAFSA
- FAFSA Application | Federal Student Aid
- Gather Information Required To Complete the FAFSA Form (youtube.com)
- Start Your 24–25 FAFSA Form (youtube.com)
- What parent should I use on the FAFSA? (youtube.com)
- What Happens After Submitting Your FAFSA Form? (youtube.com)
Step 3: Complete a New York State Aid TAP Application
- Visit NYS Higher Education Services (HESC) to complete the New York State Aid Payment Application online. This link can be found on the FAFSA confirmation page.
- Review the application for accuracy and submit.
Even if you're not eligible for TAP, you should still complete this application to be considered for the Excelsior Scholarship, STEM Scholarship, Veteran Tuition Awards (VTA), and merit and part-time scholarship options.
Resources to File Your NYS TAP Application
- NYS Student Aid Payment Application
- NYS Higher Education Services Corporation – Types of Financial Aid
- Introduction to NYS Grants & Scholarships
Step 4: Submit Additional Documents, if Required
- Sometimes you are required to submit other required documents to verify your aid eligibility and award you financial aid.
- If you're unsure what documents you need to provide, please log in to your MyFLCC Financial Aid Checklist.
Access MyFLCC Verification Guide
Step 5: View and Accept Your Awards
- Once your applications have been processed, the Office of Financial Aid will send an award notification to your FLCC and FAFSA email addresses.
- You can also check your award information 24/7 using MyFLCC.
Contact Us
For questions related to financial aid, please contact the One Stop Center as your first point of contact. They will guide your next steps.
One Stop Center
Room 1045
(585) 785-1000
(585) 394-1735
onestop@flcc.edu
flcc.edu/onestop
State College code: 2256