Financial Aid
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Understanding the financial aid process can be confusing, but don’t worry, SUNY Schenectady has a dedicated team here to assist you throughout the process. We understand that being approved for financial aid can mean the difference between success and putting your dreams on hold. Learn more about the financial aid process and types of aid you might be eligible for—and then get started on applying for assistance today!
The financial aid program at SUNY Schenectady provides monetary assistance to matriculated students (students who are enrolled at the College and declared a major) who can benefit from further education, but who can’t do it without this support.
Amounts of awards vary and depend upon the student's demonstrated and verified financial need, as well as the amount of government funds available for distribution. The primary responsibility for meeting the expenses of a college education rests with the student and family.
To apply for most types of financial aid, a student must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Using this information, the SUNY Schenectady Financial Aid Staff will determine your eligibility for federal financial assistance. The FAFSA is also the first step to apply for the New York State TAP grant. New York State will send each student an Express TAP Application for their review and signature. For more information on applying for financial aid visit our Grants and Loans section.
Need Assistance Applying for Financial Aid?
The Financial Aid Office is available to answer questions and provide assistance to help students and parents through the application process. The SUNY Schenectady Financial Aid office is located in Elston Hall, Welcome Center, Window III. Office hours are typically Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Fridays, in late June through mid-August, the office closes at 1:00 p.m.
Financial Aid Cost of Attendance
The Financial Aid Cost of Attendance is an estimate of the direct and non-direct costs that an average student may incur through their attendance at SUNY Schenectady. The costs for Room and Board, Transportation and Personal Expenses are estimates, and they are not actual charges to the student. These costs will NOT appear on your bill. The Financial Aid Office uses the estimated costs of an average student as a basis for determining financial need and student loan eligibility. View the 2024-2025 Cost of Attendance estimate.
Web Access for Financial Aid
The Financial Aid Office processes all financial aid applications including the awarding of all federal and state grants, scholarships and student loans. Once the Financial Aid Office receives your application, typically in 3-4 business days, you can review your award status, check for outstanding documentation requirements, and accept, decline, or modify awards online through the My SCCC Portal. To access the online portal, you will use your SUNY Schenectady student email which is the first letter of your first name, the last letter of your last name, and then your student ID number (minus the 900) @live.sunysccc.edu. Your student ID Number can be obtained from your admissions acceptance letter or by calling the financial aid office at 518-381-1468.
Requirements to Maintain Financial Aid
Though you maybe have a need for financial aid support the federal government has certain requirements the College must follow in the awarding of funds that are important for you to understand. As always, our Financial Aid Staff are here to help you throughout the process.
Standards for Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (FASAP)
Per Federal Student Aid regulations, each college must have a policy to determine if a student is making academic progress towards completing their degree or certificate. The policy must measure students Grade Point Average (GPA) and percentage of successfully completed the courses (aka pursuit of program). This policy is for determining financial aid eligibility only and does not affect a student’s academic standing or matriculation status. Find SUNY Schenectady’s complete FASAP Policy.
Understanding Financial Aid Procedures
It can be confusing to understand all the financial aid procedures, but we want to ensure you know how financial aid is determined and your responsibilities as a student when receiving the aid. Click here for details on the Financial Aid Procedures at SUNY Schenectady County Community College.
Disclosures to Students Using Federal Military and/or VA Educational Benefits
The Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 requires educational institutions to make certain disclosures to students using federal military and/or VA educational benefits. You can access a personalized data sheet by visiting the SUNY Net Price Cost Calculator and selecting SUNY Schenectady County Community College from the dropdown. Additional financial information can be found at the NCES College Navigator site.