Author: Adriana

BMCC Immigrant Resource Center

At BMCC, we understand that the immigration system impacts undocumented and immigrant students within and outside the classroom. The Immigrant Resource Center, housed within BMCC’s Center for Belonging and Inclusion, provides holistic services that center students’ mental health and well-being. We believe that everyone, regardless of where they were born, should have equitable access to a college education, a meaningful career, and opportunities to contribute to the communities they call home.

BMCC Immigrant and Undocumented Student Success Team

The BMCC Immigrant and Undocumented Student Success team provides immigrant and undocumented students guidance and resources for their academic journeys at BMCC, to stay safe and empowered regardless of paperwork status.

• Albert Lee
  Student Success Specialist/Immigration Liaison
  (212) 776-6252
  allee@bmcc.cuny.edu
  Monday: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (remote)
  Tuesday: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (remote)
  Wednesday: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (in-person)
  Thursday: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (in-person)
  Friday: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (in-person)
• 
  Tiffany James
  Student Success Director
  tjames@bmcc.cuny.edu
  Monday: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (in-person)
  Tuesday.: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (remote)
  Wednesday.: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (in-person)
  Thursday.: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (in-person)
  Friday: 9 a.m.-5  p.m. (remote)

BMCC Advocacy Resource Center

CUNY Citizenship NOW! has partnered with BMCC to bring immigration services to BMCC students. Our assigned attorney, Tamara, will be available once a month to consult on immigration issues and assist with Naturalization Applications, TPS and DACA Applications, as well as advise on other immigration issues. All consultations are by appointment only. Please take advantage of this wonderful opportunity by contacting the Advocacy and Resource Center (ARC@bmcc.cuny.edu) to set up an appointment. They are in Room S-230, at 199 Chambers Street. See the Advocacy and Resource Center website for current days/hours and more information about services.

Hi! I’m Adriana, a current BMCC ASAP student in my final semester, majoring in Digital Marketing. I plan to transfer to Baruch College and major in Business Marketing, the Digital Marketing track.

This past winter, I studied abroad in Korea, which expanded my global perspective and pushed me out of my comfort zone. Exploring Seoul’s creative spaces deepened my interest in how marketing and culture connect worldwide and reaffirmed my passion for pursuing a career in Marketing.

I’m happy to talk about:

• Studying abroad
• Choosing a major
• Campus life 
• Planning your transfer
• Completing FAFSA or TAP
• Understanding your financial aid

If any part of my experience resonates with you, I’d love to connect!

We can schedule a time to chat about your goals, questions, or next steps. I’m available for Zoom or in-person meetings.

Email: amorillocabral@bmcc.cuny.edu
Office Hours: Mondays (In-Person) 1PM-5PM, Thursdays (Zoom) 8AM-5PM

Looking forward to meeting you!

Are you ready to file your FAFSA and TAP for the 2026–2027 academic year?

Our FAFSA & TAP Prep Wednesdays series is wrapping up, and the final session is happening next Wednesday at 2 PM on Zoom.

If you haven’t joined us yet, this is your last chance this month to get prepared before the March 1 priority deadline.

What We Cover in Prep Wednesdays

During these virtual live sessions, the ASAP Financial Aid team helps you:

✔ Understand the basics of FAFSA & TAP
✔ Review the documents and information you need before filing
✔ Avoid common mistakes that delay aid
✔ Ask your questions live
✔ Make sure you’re ready to file before March 1

These sessions are designed to make the process feel manageable, clear, and less stressful.

When Is the Final Session?

🗓 Wednesday, February 25th
⏰ 2:00 PM
📍 Zoom

This is the last Prep Wednesday session for February — don’t miss it!

Why It Matters

The 2026–2027 FAFSA & TAP covers:

• Summer 2026
• Fall 2026
• Spring 2027

ASAP students are required to file every year to maintain tuition and book benefits. Filing early gives you time to fix issues and prevents delays in your financial aid.

https://tinyurl.com/ASAPprepWed

Your Winter Guide to Finals, Financial Aid & Staying on Track

As the semester winds down and finals season kicks in, the pressure can start to build—but you’re not doing this alone. The ASAP team is here to help you stay organized, stay motivated, and stay financially aid–ready as we head into the colder months. Whether you’re wrapping up final assignments or preparing for Winter 2026 courses, here’s everything you need to keep moving forward.

Submit Your Final Assignments

Finals season can get hectic, so now is the perfect time to double-check what’s due. Review your syllabus, check Brightspace, and reach out to your professors with any questions. Submitting missing work or completing extra credit can make a significant difference. A little organization now = a smoother end to the semester.

Remain Enrolled & Finish Strong

Don’t stop attending class! Missing too many sessions can lead to a WU (unofficial withdrawal)—which can hurt both your GPA and your financial aid. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider speaking with your ASAP Advisor or professors. We’re here to help you explore your options and keep you on track through the final stretch.

Stay Focused, Stay Funded

Your grades matter for more than just your transcript; they affect your Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), which determines whether you can continue receiving financial aid. Stay focused, break your studying into manageable chunks, and use campus resources like tutoring or the Writing Center to boost your performance.

Every strong step you take now supports your financial aid for next term.

Winter Session Students: Quick Tips

If you’re taking Winter 2026 classes, keep these in mind:

• Winter classes move fast—plan ahead
• Confirm your financial aid before buying textbooks
• Know your key dates (drop deadlines, last day of class)
• Stay in touch with your professors—communication is everything
• Use BMCC’s support services, many of which stay open during Winter
• Talk to your ASAP Advisor before making any schedule changes

Winter may be short, but it can help you advance your degree if you stay prepared.

You’ve Got This

We know this time of year can feel tiring, but you’ve already worked so hard. Stay warm, stay focused, and keep putting one foot in front of the other. Every assignment, every class, every study session brings you one step closer to graduation, and ASAP is cheering you on the whole way.

Finish strong, you’re almost there!

 

Spooky season may be over, but some financial aid myths can still come back to haunt students if they’re not careful! 👻 Throughout October, Fiona the Financial Aid Fox helped us uncover some of the most common misunderstandings about FAFSA and TAP, so you can stay informed and keep your aid safe from disappearing like a ghost.

Here’s a recap of the Financial Aid Myths we busted this month:

---

Myth #1: “Once I get financial aid, I’ll automatically get it every semester.”

Truth: Financial aid isn’t automatic! You must reapply for FAFSA and TAP every year to stay eligible. Your financial aid can change if your income or situation does. Don’t forget to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) by keeping your GPA up, completing your courses, and staying on track to graduate; otherwise, your aid could vanish!

---

Myth #2: “I support myself, so I don’t have to include my parents’ information on the FAFSA.”

Truth: Even if you support yourself financially, you may still be considered a dependent student for federal aid purposes. The FAFSA form determines this based on specific dependency questions. Visit StudentAid.gov/dependency to review the criteria before you file!

---

Myth #3: “I don’t need to apply for TAP since I already did the FAFSA.”

Truth: FAFSA and TAP are two separate applications! FAFSA covers federal aid, while TAP provides New York State aid. ASAP students must complete both applications to stay in good standing and receive their full award package. You can apply or check your TAP status at hesc.ny.gov/totw.

---

Stay Ahead of the Myths!

Financial aid doesn’t have to be scary. Stay proactive, apply early, and ask questions whenever you’re unsure. Your ASAP Financial Aid team is always here to help you stay informed and ready for success.

 

Happy Autumn Equinox, everyone! 🍂

As we welcome a new season, it’s the perfect time to get ahead on financial aid planning. One of the most valuable resources available to New York students is the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). Here are five key things to know:

1. TAP is required!
To maximize your ASAP benefits, you must complete FAFSA and TAP each year!

2. TAP through the NYS DREAM Act:
If you’re not eligible for FAFSA, you may still qualify for TAP through the NYS DREAM Act application: https://www.hesc.ny.gov/applying-aid/nys-dream-act

3. Even if you’re denied…
You still have to apply! ASAP needs your TAP record on file.

4. Track your application:
Log in at HESC TAP to make sure your application is fully complete, and your school code is correct: https://www.hesc.ny.gov/my-hesc-account-access

BMCC= CUNY Manhattan CC 1404

5. Don’t wait!
The earlier you file, the sooner your aid is processed. Apply today: https://www.tap.hesc.ny.gov/totw/

TAP is a powerful resource for making your college journey more affordable, don’t leave it on the table!

 

Your financial aid is here to support your success, but did you know that your enrollment and class attendance directly affect your funding? By understanding a few key rules, you can avoid losing your aid and stay on track this semester.

1. Eligibility

Financial aid isn’t automatic, it’s awarded based on enrollment AND completing the semester successfully. Dropping or failing to finish courses can put your funding at risk.

2. Enrollment Matters

Withdrawals, drops, and not attending class (WN) can all affect your aid. That’s why it’s important to attend from day one and stay engaged throughout the semester.

3. Pro Tip

Always check the BMCC Academic Calendar for important drop and withdrawal deadlines. Withdrawing the wrong way could result in WN, WU, or F grades, which can negatively impact your record and your financial aid.

• Fall Regular 2025
• Fall 7W1 2025
• Fall 8W2 2025

4. Having Trouble Attending Class?

Don’t go through it alone. If something comes up and you’re struggling to attend, reach out right away to your professor or ASAP Advisor. The earlier you communicate, the more support you can get.

5. Get Support!

Your ASAP team is here to guide you. We’ll help you understand how changes like dropping or withdrawing will affect your aid, so you can make the best decision for your future.

Final Thoughts

Protecting your financial aid is about staying informed and connected. By enrolling, attending, and reaching out when you need help, you’ll set yourself up for a strong and successful semester.

📩 Questions? Email us at ASAPfinaid@bmcc.cuny.edu or stop by our office. We’re here for you!

 

SAP Requirements

To meet SAP, you must:

• Maintain a minimum GPA
• Complete a certain percentage of credits you attempt (also called Pace of Progression)
• Finish your degree within a set timeframe (Maximum Time Frame)

Even falling short in one area can affect your eligibility.

What if I’m Not Meeting SAP?

If you don’t meet SAP standards, your financial aid may be suspended, but don’t worry. You may be able to submit an appeal explaining your situation and request reinstatement.

📅 Fall 2025 SAP Appeal Deadline: November 5, 2025
🗣️ Talk to your ASAP Academic Advisor as soon as possible for guidance

Read the below guides:

• How to Access CUNY Student Forms for Financial Aid SAP Appeal
• How to Complete your Financial Aid SAP Appeal
• How to View SAP Appeal Status 

Tips to Stay on Track

• Use free tutoring services through ASAP
• Meet with your advisor regularly
• Reach out to your professors early if you’re struggling
• Make a plan and stick to your schedule

---

Need Help?

Whether you have questions about your SAP status or need help submitting an appeal, don’t wait, connect with your ASAP Academic Advisor or ASAP@bmcc.cuny.edu. We’re here to support your success every step of the way.

 

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

---

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/ 

 

---

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.

---

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.