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HESC urges continued TAP expansions and universal FAFSA outreach as the primary route to increase college access
Summary
HESC President Guillermo Linares told the committees the governor's budget continues strong support for TAP and FAFSA outreach; HESC highlighted outreach gains, universal FAFSA efforts and a proposed $47M for free community college in the executive budget while seeking more funding for modernization and student outreach.
Guillermo Linares, president of the Higher Education Services Corporation, testified that the executive budget—s $1.03 billion for higher‑education financial aid, including over $850 million for TAP, would continue the state—s recent expansions and that HESC—s outreach and FAFSA efforts are increasing eastern New York—s completion rates.
HESC work and proposals: Linares described a multi‑pronged outreach effort (FASA Ready), thousands of FAFSA events and training for counselors and community groups and said New York ranked fourth nationally in FAFSA submission rate for the class of 2025. He said HESC is modernizing the financial aid application system in smaller increments to meet evolving needs and supports proposals to consolidate and simplify award payments, including combining Excelsior scholarship payments.
Free community college and part‑time TAP: Linares summarized the administration—s Opportunity Promise proposal ($47 million to pilot free community college for adults 25–55) and said HESC will work to simplify award delivery. He emphasized HESC—s role administering part‑time TAP expansions and other targeted access programs.
Why it matters: HESC runs New York—s primary grant and scholarship programs; administrators pleaded for continued investments in outreach, modernization and funding flexibility to help more residents access college and complete degrees.
