State University of New York (SUNY) Chancellor John B. King Jr. announced a $500,000 award from ECMC to further SUNY’s efforts in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This initiative aims to ensure that more students can access financial assistance and turn their college education aspirations into reality this fall.
Despite the recent start of summer break, the Fall 2024 semester is just weeks away. SUNY is committed to helping every student receive the financial aid they deserve. Due to federal delays, FAFSA completion rates in New York State have decreased compared to last year. The ECMC award will enhance outreach efforts to assist students and their families in completing the FAFSA, thereby securing the necessary financial aid for college.
Key Points:
Unclaimed Financial Aid: The high school class of 2023 nationwide left over $4 billion in Pell Grants unclaimed by not completing the FAFSA. In New York State alone, nearly $226 million went unclaimed.
ECMC Funding Initiatives:
Providing funding to SUNY campuses for additional service time and transportation costs to conduct outreach across the state.
Supporting outreach coordinators to assist campuses in their efforts.
Partnering with community-based organizations to offer multilingual support and credible messengers, including Spanish-language FAFSA completion events.
Offering gift cards to students who complete their FAFSA application, redeemable at SUNY bookstores for purchasing books and supplies.
Conducting a statewide digital marketing campaign targeting current high school seniors throughout the summer.
This collaborative effort aims to empower more New Yorkers to claim the unused federal financial aid available each year and find their place at SUNY. By bridging the gap, SUNY and ECMC contribute to educational equity and student success.