How to Start Applying to College in New York State in 5 simple steps!
Take note of all submission deadlines for the academic year in which you wish to apply to College, on ALL forms. Some SUNY School’s have separate application deadlines.
1. Submitting your Application
You have some options, the Common Application or The SUNY Application? Which is best for you? Do you want to go to College in a State other then New York? If so, you will follow some different steps then those outlined here. Also, see the CUNY Application.
2. Qualifying for Financial Aid
To qualify for financial aid at the institution(s) of choice, you must complete and submit the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Note, you can and should list multiple Colleges and Universities even if you are waiting on some admission letters at the time of your FAFSA submission.
After submitting your FAFSA, you will be redirected to the Higher Education Services Corporation to file a separate application for NYS based financial aid programs like the new Excelsior Scholarship.
3. The Admissions Essay
You should search for Tips on How to Write your Admissions essay on the websites of the colleges and universities that you are applying to. You should consider what they are looking for and if you should apply using the SUNY Common App you will want to be inclusive of the criteria set forth by the institution(s) you are interested in as you respond primarily to the Common Application Essay Prompt of your choice.
4. Follow up with and check your Financial aid status about a month after submitting your FAFSA application. Make sure that there are no additional documents required by FAFSA and/or by the colleges you have applied to that will be receiving your financial aid information. (I.e., tax returns)
5. Await your acceptance letters!
Deadlines:
FAFSA
The SUNY Application (Pg. 4)
HESC Applications (SUNY & CUNY)