The financial aid administrator at your college can help determine what you’re eligible for. There are, however some basic guidelines for all applicants. They must:

• Demonstrate financial need; this means that your cost of education is greater than your family contribution
• Be working toward a degree or certificate
• Be enrolled in an eligible program
• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, be a New York state resident for NY state aid (TAP)
• Have a valid Social Security number
• Be registered with the Selective Service (if required)
• Maintain academic progress once in college
• Have a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate
• Not be convicted of selling or possessing illegal drugs while receiving aid
• Not be in default of federal student loans or state student loans for NY state financial aid (TAP)