• Students posing in the Atrium located in the E-Building
    TYPES OF AID

    We offer students a combination of financing options to cover their College expenses.


      Federal Student Loans
      These loans are funded by the federal government—U.S. Department of Education. Just like any other loan, these loans must be repaid with interest. If you need to borrow money to pay for college, start with federal student loans.

      Non-Need-Based Loans
      • Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans charge interest, but allow you to add the interest fees to the amount you borrow until after you graduate. However, this means you’ll end up owing more.
      • Federal Direct PLUS Loans allow parents to borrow the total cost of college, minus any financial aid received.

      How to apply for a federal loan:
      1. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
      2. Complete the Direct Loan application via CUNYfirst student services center.
      3. Complete Loan Entrance Counseling Session and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) online at www.studentloans.gov.

      Alternative/Private Loans
      These loans are nonfederal loans, made by a lender such as a bank, credit union, state agency, or a school. Only consider a private loan if you have exhausted all other sources of funding such as federal and state aid. LaGuardia does not recommend any specific lender/programs. Please contact the lender of your choice for details about their program and application process.

      Students and parents interested in an private loan should carefully research alternative/private loans to determine which program may serve their needs best. Many private student loans require payments while you are still in school. Loan costs, interest rates, fees, and terms of the private loan, vary widely between programs and lenders. The borrower’s credit history may be reviewed and some lenders may require a loan co-signer. Learn more.

      Emergency Loans
      We understand that emergencies happen that can impact your education. LaGuardia offers Emergency Loans which is an advance against anticipated financial aid for emergency cases. Emergency cases may include eviction notices or utility turn-off notices. Students may apply for one short-term emergency loan up to $500 per semester based on anticipated financial aid.

      How to apply for an Emergency Loan:
      Meet with a financial aid advisor in room C-107. Please bring documentation indicating need of the emergency loan.

      Loan Resources
      Federal vs. Private Loans
      Interest Rates on Federal Loans
      Avoiding Scams
      Loan Repayment
      Direct Consolidation Loan
      Loan Forgiveness Program




    Financial Aid at a glance



    If you are uncertain how you will pay for College, you should apply for financial aid. You'll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be eligible for grants, work-study, scholarships or loans.

    Follow the steps below to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
  • Student in front of a computer
    PREPARE

    Gather documents needed to apply. 
    • Student & Parent’s 2015 Federal Income Tax Returns (1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, W-2, and other records of money earned)
    • Records of untaxed income (Social Security benefits, food stamps (SNAP), etc., if applicable) valid email address
    • Find or create your Federal Student Aid (FSA ID).

    All applicants must use a FSA ID to apply for financial aid.







  • Student in front of a computer applying for Federal Student Aid
    APPLY

    Log on to file your FAFSA application before December 31 (for fall semester); April 15 (for spring semester).
    • Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to access the income tax information, if applicable. It is the best way to ensure the FAFSA has accurate income information. 
      FAFSA CODE: 010051  TAP CODE:1403
    • After you complete your FAFSA, apply for New York State Aid (TAP). 
    • Need help? Bring your documents to the Student Financial Services Resource Center in C-Building, room C-109. Questions? Call us! 718-482-7218. 
     






  • Student in front of a computer in the Computer Lab Room
    AFTER YOU APPLY

    Check your email one week after completing your FAFSA. The U.S. Department of Education will send you an email with a link to your Student Aid Report (SAR).

    Review your SAR for inaccuracies. If you are selected for a process called Verification submit required documents to Student Financial Services in-person in room C-107; via email to financialaid@lagcc.cuny.edu; or fax it to (718) 609-2020.

    After your FAFSA is processed by the U.S.Department of Education, the Student Financial Services staff will review your information and determine your eligibility. If you are eligible, you will receive a notification of your financial aid awards on your CUNYfirst account.

    Check your CUNYfirst To Do list for any outstanding items that should be submitted.






  • Student studying in the Atrium located in the E-Building
    FINANCIAL AID TIPS
    • Complete your FAFSA in October each year to get the most money available.
    • Prospective students should apply for admission and financial aid at the same time. 
    • Register for 12 or more credits (classes in session I and II) to get the most financial aid and graduate sooner. 
    • If you think you may need to withdraw from a class, get ahead of the game—speak with an advisor on your Advising Team about your options. Failure to attend class/withdrawal from class can negatively impact the amount of your financial aid. You may also risk future eligibility and be subject to repayment.
    • Review your major’s requirements to understand the courses needed for your major. Take your core courses as early as possible to avoid accumulating too many other credits that do not count toward your major and financial aid may not be available to cover.



  • Student visiting the Reosurce Center located in the C-Building, Room C-109
    STUDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES RESOURCE CENTER

    We know the financial aid process may seem complex. Visit the Student Financial Services Resource Center for assistance applying for federal student aid, state aid -TAP/Aid for Part-Time Study, and scholarships; and to get answers to your financial aid questions. Our dedicated staff will help you understand the financial aid process, discover scholarship and other funding opportunities, and gain the financial know-how required to make informed decisions throughout your College years and beyond.

    Room: C-Building, Room C-109
    Phone: 718-482-7218
    Email: financialaid@lagcc.cuny.edu
    Hours: Monday & Thursday - 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
    Tuesday & Wednesday - 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
    Friday, Saturday & Sunday - Closed

    Click here to visit the Financial Aid FAQ