Financial Aid Programs
Financial aid programs are designed to help students and families pay for educational expenses while attending Finger Lakes Community College. Financial aid may include grants, scholarships, loans, and employment opportunities. Eligibility for financial aid is determined by federal, state, institutional, and program-specific requirements.
Students must generally:
- Be accepted into an eligible degree or certificate program
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Be enrolled in courses required for their declared degree
- Meet all federal and state eligibility requirements
Coursework Applicability: Financial aid can only be paid for coursework that applies toward a student’s declared degree or certificate program. Courses that are not required for your program will not be included when determining your financial aid eligibility. For example, if a student is enrolled in 12 credits but only 9 credits apply toward their degree program, financial aid eligibility may be based on 9 credits instead of 12.
Some financial aid programs require full-time enrollment, while others may be available to part-time students. Financial aid awards may be adjusted if enrollment changes during the semester.
Grants
Grants, which generally do not have to be repaid, are awarded to students based on financial need. Finger Lakes Community College participates in the following grant programs:
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is a federal grant program for undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need. Eligibility and award amounts are determined by federal law and are based on
information reported on the FAFSA.
For the 2026-2027 award year, annual Pell Grant awards range from $740 to $11,092, depending on a student’s financial need, enrollment status, and eligibility under federal guidelines.
Pell Grant awards are prorated based on the number of credits a student registers for each semester. Students enrolled full-time generally receive the highest semester award amount, while students enrolled less than full-time may receive a reduced award.
For the 2026-2027 award year, the maximum Pell Grant a full-time student may receive in a single semester is $3,697.
Students generally must:
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be enrolled in an eligible program
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Meet all federal student aid eligibility requirements
Pell Grant eligibility may vary based on enrollment level and attendance in courses required for the student’s academic program.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is a federal grant awarded to students with exceptional financial need. At Finger Lakes Community College, priority consideration is generally given to students with a Student Aid Index (SAI) of 0 or less who complete the FAFSA early.
FSEOG funding is limited and awards are made on a first-come, first-served basis until available funds are exhausted.
Eligible students may receive up to $250 per semester through the FSEOG program.
Students generally must:
- Demonstrate exceptional financial need
- Have a Student Aid Index (SAI) of 0 or less
- Be enrolled in an eligible program
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Meet all federal student aid eligibility requirements
NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)
The New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) helps eligible New York State residents pay tuition costs while attending approved colleges in New York State. Generally, only degree-seeking students are eligible for TAP, however, certain part-time, non-degree programs at FLCC may be eligible. TAP is available to both full-time and part-time students enrolled in eligible programs of study at FLCC.
TAP award amounts are determined by the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) and are based on factors including:
- New York State taxable income
- Dependency status
- Enrollment level
- Tuition charges
- Program eligibility
Annual TAP awards generally range from $1,000 up to the cost of full tuition.
To receive TAP, students must complete both the FAFSA and the New York State TAP Application.
To be eligible for TAP, a student must generally:
- Be a legal resident of New York State and have lived in New York State for at least 12 continuous months prior to the start of the term
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
- Be enrolled in an approved program of study at an approved New York State postsecondary institution
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress and meet New York State academic standards
- Meet New York State income eligibility requirements
- Not be in default on any federal or state student loan or repayment of state financial aid funds
- Comply with the terms of any service requirement associated with a New York State award
Full-time TAP recipients must generally enroll in at least 12 credits that apply toward their degree program each semester. Part-time TAP may be available for eligible students enrolled in 3-11 credits based on New York State guidelines and student eligibility.
SUNY Reconnect
SUNY Reconnect is a New York State program that helps eligible adult students attend community college at little or no cost in approved high-demand workforce programs.
At Finger Lakes Community College, SUNY Reconnect is available to eligible students enrolled in approved associate degree programs identified by the State University of New York (SUNY). A list of eligible programs can be found on our website.
SUNY Reconnect is a last-dollar financial aid program. This means SUNY Reconnect funding is applied after all other federal, state, institutional, and outside grants and scholarships have been applied to a student’s account.
Eligible students may receive funding to help cover remaining tuition, mandatory fees, books, and supplies not covered by other grants and scholarships.
To be eligible for SUNY Reconnect, students must generally:
- Be a New York State resident
- Be between the ages of 25 and 55 at the start of the term
- Not already hold a college degree (Associate's, Bachelor's, or higher)
- Enroll in an approved SUNY Reconnect program
- Maintain good academic standing
- Complete the New York State TAP Application and FAFSA, if applicable
- Remain enrolled in at least 6 credits each semester
Only coursework required for the student’s approved program of study may be covered under SUNY Reconnect.
Award amounts and eligibility are determined based on state guidelines, available funding, enrollment status, and other financial aid received. Students who become ineligible due to changes in enrollment, academic progress, residency, or other eligibility requirements may be responsible for unpaid balances resulting from adjustments to SUNY Reconnect funding.
Equal Opportunity Program (EOP)
The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) provides financial assistance and academic support services to students who demonstrate academic potential and economic need.
Students accepted into EOP may receive financial assistance, academic counseling, tutoring, and other support services designed to promote student success.
EOP grant amounts vary based on student eligibility and available funding. Eligible students may receive up to $800 per academic year through the EOP program. Additional grant funding may be awarded if program funding and institutional budgets allow.
Admission to EOP is selective and based on New York State guidelines. Students must meet academic and economic eligibility requirements established by New York State and Finger Lakes Community College:
- Be a New York State resident;
- Be a first-time student (or previously enrolled in an EOP);
- Be admitted to one of our degree programs;
- Register as a full-time student (12 or more credits); and
- Meet academic and income guidelines (outlined on our EOP website).
Scholarships
Scholarships, which generally do not have to be repaid, are awarded to students based on various criteria such as academic achievement, financial need, athletic ability, artistic talent, or community involvement. Finger Lakes Community College participates in the following scholarship programs.
FLCC Scholarships
The FLCC Foundation's scholarship program awards over $165,000 annually. Scholarships range from $400 to full tuition. For a complete listing of these scholarships, visit the FLCC Foundation Website.
NYS Excelsior Program
The Excelsior Scholarship is a New York State program that helps eligible students attend FLCC tuition-free. For the 2026-2027 academic year, students whose families earned $125,000 or less in the 2024 tax year may qualify to apply.
The Excelsior Scholarship is a last-dollar award. In combination with other federal and state financial aid programs, the scholarship allows eligible students to attend Finger Lakes Community College tuition-free. The Excelsior Scholarship covers any remaining tuition charges after federal and state grants and scholarships have been applied, up to $5,500 annually. Excelsior does not cover student fees.
To be eligible for the Excelsior Scholarship, a student must:
- Be a resident of New York State and have lived in New York State for at least 12 continuous months prior to the beginning of the term
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
- Have graduated from high school in the United States, earned a high school equivalency diploma, or passed a federally approved Ability to Benefit test as defined by the Commissioner of the State Education Department
- Have a combined federal adjusted gross income of $125,000 or less
- Be pursuing an undergraduate degree at FLCC
- Enroll in at least 12 credits per semester and successfully complete at least 30 credits each academic year that apply toward the student’s degree program through continuous enrollment, unless an approved interruption in study applies
- If the student attended college prior to the 2026-2027 academic year, have successfully completed at least 30 applicable credits per year before applying for the Excelsior Scholarship
- Not be in default on any federal or New York State student loan or repayment of a New York State award
- Be in compliance with the terms of any service condition associated with a previously received New York State award
- Execute a contract agreeing to reside in New York State for the same number of years the award was received and, if employed during that period, work in New York State
Award amounts, eligibility requirements, and program rules are determined by New York State and may change annually.
Other NYS Scholarships & Awards
New York State (NYS) offers several scholarships to help students pursue their education. These scholarships have different requirements depending on the scholarship program and award amounts vary based on a number of factors. Some of the notable NYS scholarships include:
- NYS Part-Time Scholarship (PTS) Award
- NYS Scholarship for Academic Excellence
- NYS Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Incentive Program
- NYS World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship
- Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute - MERIT Scholarship
For more information about NYS Scholarship and Awards, visit the HESC website.
Loans
Student loans are a form of financial aid designed to help students and families pay educational expenses while attending college. Unlike scholarships and grants, student loans must be repaid, typically with interest. Although student loans must be repaid, they are considered financial aid because eligibility is determined through the FAFSA process and most federal student loans do not require a credit check or cosigner for student borrowers.
Both need-based and non-need-based loan programs are available to eligible students enrolled in at least six credits. Because of the relatively low cost of attendance at Finger Lakes Community College, students are encouraged to borrow only what is necessary to help finance their education.
Current interest rates, repayment terms, and additional information about federal student and parent loan programs are available at Federal Student Aid Loan Information.
Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loan
Federal Direct Loans are educational loans offered through the U.S. Department of Education. Eligible students may qualify for Federal Direct Subsidized Loans, Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, or a combination of both.
Federal Direct Loans are automatically included as part of a student’s financial aid offer when eligibility is determined. Maximum loan eligibility is listed on the student’s financial aid offer through MyFLCC.
Loan eligibility is based on several factors, including:
- Number of credits in the semester
- Cost of Attendance
- Dependency status
- Prior borrowing history
- Other financial aid received
Federal Direct Subsidized Loans are awarded based on financial need. The federal government pays the interest on subsidized loans while the student is enrolled at least half-time and during certain authorized deferment periods.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans are not based on financial need. Interest begins accruing at the time the loan is disbursed, and students are responsible for all accrued interest.
Students borrowing through the Federal Direct Loan program are required to complete:
- A Master Promissory Note (MPN)
- Entrance Loan Counseling prior to receiving loan funds
- Exit Loan Counseling when graduating, withdrawing, or dropping below half-time enrollment
Federal Direct Loans enter repayment six months after a student graduates, withdraws, or drops below six credits.
Beginning with the 2026-2027 award year, the amount you are eligible to borrow in Federal Direct Loans will be based on your course registration (the number of credits you are taking in a semester). Federal law now requires that loan limits be prorated based on enrollment, meaning that students who are enrollment part-time will only be eligible for a percentage of their annual loan maximum.
|
Direct Loan Undergraduate Maximum Annual Limits
|
| Dependent Student Completed Credits |
Subsidized Loans |
Total (Subsidized + Unsubsidized) |
| 0-31 |
$3,500.00 |
$5,500.00 |
| 32+ |
$4,500.00 |
$6,500.00 |
Independent Student Completed Credits
*Includes dependents with a PLUS loan denial |
|
|
| 0-31 |
$3,500.00 |
$9,500.00 |
| 32+ |
$4,500.00 |
$10,500.00 |
|
Aggregate Loan Limits
(Lifetime limit on all loans combined)
|
|
Subsidized Loans |
Total (Subsidized + Unsubsidized) |
| Dependent |
$23,000.00 |
$31,000.00 |
Independent Student Completed Credits
*Includes dependents with a PLUS loan denial |
$23,000.00 |
$57,500.00 |
Federal PLUS Loan
Federal PLUS Loans are federal educational loans available to biological or adoptive parents of dependent undergraduate students enrolled at six credits in a semester. These loans are designed to help families cover educational expenses not already covered by other financial aid.
Eligibility for a Federal PLUS Loan is based on a credit review completed by the U.S. Department of Education. Unlike Federal Direct Student Loans, PLUS Loans do require a credit check.
Parents may borrow up to the student’s full Cost of Attendance minus any other financial aid received, up to $20,000 annually per student and a $65,000 lifetime total per student.
Federal PLUS Loans may be deferred while the student remains enrolled at least half-time; however, interest accrues during all periods of deferment. Repayment terms, interest rates, and borrower benefits are established by federal regulations and may change annually.
Parents who are denied a Federal PLUS Loan based on the credit review may allow their dependent student to become eligible for additional Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan funding.
Alternative/Private Student Loans
An alternative loan for college, also known as a private student loan, is a type of loan that students or their families can obtain from private lenders to help cover college expenses. Unlike federal student loans, which are funded and regulated by the U.S. Department of Education, alternative loans are offered by banks, credit unions, and other private financial institutions. These lenders set their own terms and conditions for loan approval, interest rates, repayment options, and borrower eligibility criteria. Interest rates for alternative loans can vary widely depending on the lender, the borrower's creditworthiness, and market conditions. Unlike federal student loans, which often have fixed interest rates, alternative loans may offer both fixed and variable interest rate options. Borrowers should carefully review and compare interest rates and terms from different lenders to find the most favorable loan terms. It's important for students and families to carefully evaluate their financial needs, explore all available financial aid options, compare loan terms from different lenders, and borrow responsibly to minimize debt and manage repayment effectively.
Federal Work-Study
The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program provides part-time employment opportunities for undergraduate students with financial need, allowing students to earn money to help pay educational expenses while attending college.
To be considered for Federal Work-Study, students must complete the FAFSA and demonstrate financial need. Financial need is determined using federal methodology and may consider factors such as family income, household size, enrollment level, and the cost of attendance.
The U.S. Department of Education provides Finger Lakes Community College with a limited annual allocation of Federal Work-Study funding. Because funding is limited, FWS awards are made on a first-come, first-served basis. Students are encouraged to accept their award and complete all required employment and hiring documentation by applicable deadlines.
Federal Work-Study positions may be located on campus or with approved off-campus community service organizations. Students are paid for hours worked, and earnings are typically paid directly to the student through the College payroll process.
The standard annual Federal Work-Study award is $3,000. Certain grant-funded or service-based positions may be awarded up to $5,000 annually to allow students to fulfill required service obligations.
Students who reach or approach their awarded Federal Work-Study limit may request an increase in funding. If additional Federal Work-Study funding is available, awards may be increased up to $5,000 at the discretion of the Director of Financial Aid.
FLCC does not impose a minimum earnings requirement under the Federal Work-Study program.
Military Programs & Veterans Benefits
Finger Lakes Community College recognizes the unique experience military service can give to you. There are many programs and resources specifically designed to help veterans achieve success in education - and in life.
Montgomery GI Bill®
The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) program provides up to 36 months of education benefits. This benefit may be used for degree and certificate programs, flight training, apprenticeship/on-the-job training, and correspondence courses. Benefits are payable for 10 years following your release from active duty. Visit the VA's Administration Montgomery GI Bill website for additional information. For more information about applying for education benefits, visit the Veterans’ Benefits website.
Post-9/11 GI Bill
If you have at least 90 days of aggregate active duty service after September 10, 2001, and are an honorably discharged veteran, active duty military member, or were discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days of service, you may be eligible for this VA-administered program. More information is available on the VA's Benefits Administration Post-9/11 GI Bill website.
Military Tuition Assistance (TA)
Military Tuition Assistance (TA) Funds are financial resources provided by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to support the educational goals of active-duty service members, members of the National Guard, and Reserve components. The purpose of TA funds is to help service members pursue higher education and professional development while serving in the military. Active-duty service members from all branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard, are typically eligible for Military Tuition Assistance. In addition, members of the National Guard and Reserve components may also qualify for TA funds under certain conditions. Service members must apply for Military Tuition Assistance through their respective military branches.
Vocational Readiness & Employment (VR&E)
Vocational Readiness and Employment (VR&E), also known as Chapter 31 of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits, is a program designed to help veterans and service members with service-connected disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain suitable employment or achieve greater independence in daily living activities through services such as vocational rehabilitation, career counseling, and job placement assistance. To be eligible for VR&E benefits, individuals must be veterans or service members with a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% or a memorandum rating of 20% or more from the VA. Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors assess applicants' eligibility and determine their entitlement to VR&E services.
Veterans should be aware that the Veterans’ Administration helps eligible veterans seeking further education. Additional information on Veterans’ Benefits may be obtained by contacting either the Veterans’ Service Agency Advisor or the Financial Aid Office at the College.
In accordance with Title 38 US Code 3679 subsection (e), this school adopts the following additional provisions for any students using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Post 9/11 G.I. Bill® (Ch. 33) or Veterans Readiness and Employment (Ch. 31) benefits, while payment to the institution is pending from the VA. This school will not:
-
Prevent nor delay the student’s enrollment.
-
Assess a late penalty fee to the student due to the delayed disbursement of funding from VA under Chapter 31 or 33.
-
Require the student to secure alternative or additional funding.
-
Deny the student access to any resources available to other students who have satisfied their tuition and fee bills to the institution, including but not limited to access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities.
However, to qualify for this provision, such students may be required to:
-
Produce the Certificate of Eligibility by the first day of class.
-
Provide a written request to be certified.
-
Provide additional information needed to properly certify the enrollment as described in other institutional policies.