Month: July 2025

College can be expensive, but you don’t have to face it alone! If you’re a New York State resident, TAP (Tuition Assistance Program) can help you pay your tuition at BMCC.

What is TAP?

TAP is a grant provided by New York State to help eligible students cover tuition costs. Grants are different from loans because they do not need to be repaid, helping you stay on track financially while focusing on your education.

How to Apply:

• Complete the FAFSA to determine your federal and state financial aid eligibility.
• Complete the NYS TAP Application using the link provided after your FAFSA or directly at the HESC website.
• If you are undocumented, you can apply for TAP by first completing the NYS Senator Jose Peralta DREAM Act Application, which allows access to TAP and other NY State aid.

Why Should You Apply?

• Helps pay for tuition
• No repayment required
• Supports your goal of graduating without excessive debt

TAP is one of the many financial aid resources available to you as a BMCC student, and our ASAP Financial Aid team is here to help you apply and track your status.

Need assistance? The ASAP Financial Aid team is here to guide you through the TAP or DREAM Act application process and answer any questions you have. Email us at ASAPfinaid@bmcc.cuny.edu or visit us at our office to get started.

 

As we wrap up Summer Session 1 and welcome Summer Session 2, it’s time to start preparing for Fall 2025. Staying on top of your financial aid tasks now will help you avoid last-minute issues and ensure a smooth start to your semester.

Excelsior Scholarship Deadline: August 31, 2025

Thinking about applying for the Excelsior Scholarship for Fall 2025? The deadline to apply is August 31, 2025.

The Excelsior Scholarship can help cover tuition at CUNY, but you need to complete the application on time and meet eligibility requirements.

https://www.hesc.ny.gov/find-aid/nys-grants-scholarships/excelsior-scholarship-program

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Need Help? Attend the HESC Info Session

Have questions about the Excelsior Scholarship or your financial aid?

HESC will be hosting a virtual presentation on Monday, July 21, 2025. This is a great opportunity to get your questions answered directly from New York State financial aid experts: https://openlab.bmcc.cuny.edu/asapfinancialaid/event/excelsior-scholarship-and-enhanced-tuition-award-eta-presentation-hosted-by-hesc/ 

 

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What You Can Do Now:

• Mark your calendar for the Excelsior deadline on 8/31.
• Check your CUNYfirst To-Do List and clear any pending items.
• File your FAFSA and TAP if you haven’t done so.
• Attend the HESC info session on 7/21 to learn more about Excelsior and financial aid.

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Taking these steps now will help you stay on track and ensure you have your financial aid ready for Fall.

Questions? Contact your ASAP Financial Aid Advisor via our email: ASAPfinaid@bmcc.cuny.edu, visit the office, or join a virtual session. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

 

 

As summer moves forward, it’s the perfect time to take a few minutes to check your financial aid status and clear your CUNYfirst To-Do List. Completing these tasks now will help you stay ready for the upcoming semester while enjoying your summer plans without unnecessary stress.

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What Is Your CUNYfirst To-Do List?

Your To-Do List in CUNYfirst is a checklist of important financial aid and enrollment tasks that need your attention to ensure your aid is processed on time.

How to check your To-Do List:

1. Log in to CUNYfirst.
2. Go to Student Center.
3. Click on Tasks and Holds to view your To-Do items.

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Filing FAFSA and TAP Is Just the First Step

Submitting your FAFSA or TAP application is an important step, but there may be additional requirements before your aid can be fully processed. Depending on your situation, you may need to:

• Complete the “Verify My FAFSA” task if you are selected for verification.
• Submit forms via StudentForms.
• Upload required documents to complete your application.

Completing these tasks promptly ensures there are no delays in your financial aid, helping you stay eligible for tuition coverage, your MetroCard, and textbook assistance through ASAP.

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Why Complete These Tasks Now?

Taking care of your financial aid tasks during the summer allows you to:

• Avoid last-minute delays when classes begin.
• Secure your aid so you can focus on your academics.
• Enjoy your summer plans knowing your financial aid is ready for Fall.

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Need Help?

Your ASAP Financial Aid team is here to guide you through each step. If you have questions about your To-Do List, FAFSA, TAP, or required documents:

• Contact us at ASAPfinaid@bmcc.cuny.edu

Checking off your financial aid tasks now is a small step that can make a big difference in preparing for a successful semester.