Although the Higher Education Act expressly limits the use of Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) data for anything other than determining and awarding financial aid, families with mixed immigration status remain concerned about data privacy under the current administration.

We deeply believe in the opportunity created through equitable access to higher education, and FAFSA remains a vital part of that pathway. However, we acknowledge that current federal policies raise serious concerns about family safety when sharing the information required to complete the FAFSA.

The New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC) has introduced an alternative pathway for students to apply for state financial aid. Previously, U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens were required to complete the FAFSA to access many New York State grants and scholarships, including the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP).

Recognizing the concerns some students face — particularly those with family members of different immigration statuses — HESC’s new alternative pathway allows students to apply for state aid, without completing the FAFSA, with the exception of the Excelsior Scholarship and the Enhanced Tuition Award. Because it is a state-run program, this alternative pathway ensures greater privacy and protection of personal information.

Here are resources to help families decide whether to share identifying information when creating a FSA ID or completing the FAFSA. 

The Higher Education Immigration Portal is a comprehensive hub for students from mixed-status families navigating the FAFSA process. It offers key information on eligibility, helpful guides, webinars, trainings, and frequently asked questions.

Key resources include:

• Information about sharing personal information when completing the FAFSA as part of a mixed-status family
• An overview of state financial aid options for undocumented students
• Messaging guidance for counselors and school staff who are supporting students from mixed-status families in completing the FAFSA

The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) has also published its own guidance for mixed-status families, including:

• Answers to frequently asked questions
• Instructions on how individuals without a Social Security number can obtain an FSA ID