Before applying, learn all you can about the colleges you're interested in.
Find out about colleges in New York State and around the country at College Board.
Talk to college representatives at a college fair.
Get all this and more in the College and Career Planning section.
Do the Math
Get information on college costs and estimate your college expenses.
Discuss paying for college with your family. New York State offers an excellent 529 college savings program.
Ask your school counselor about scholarships and grants.
Review Paying for College for all the aid opportunities available to you.
To Complete Your Financial Aid Application, You Will Need This Information
W-2 forms, or end-of-year pay stubs;
Records of last year's untaxed income, such as child support and untaxed income from such agencies as: Social Services, Social Security, and the Veteran's Administration;
Federal and state income tax forms for you, your parents, or your spouse; if married;
Bank account balances; lists of stocks, bonds and other assets; and both the estimated value and mortgage balance of other real estate (not including your home).
