Guidance for Mixed-Status Families

A mixed-status family is one where the student is a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen, but the student’s parent(s) or spouse (FAFSA contributors) do not have a social security number.

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New York State will continue to add additional information and resources for mixed-status families. Sign up for text alerts to receive the latest updates. 

students studying

The current process to receive federal and state financial aid requires students with a social security number (SSN) to complete the FAFSA and to take additional steps when a parent or caregiver does not have an SSN. New York State recognizes the challenges this may present for students from mixed-status families and understands the importance of protecting the sensitivity of personal information. We remain committed to safeguarding privacy while ensuring a secure and accessible path to college financial aid.


This information is based on current state and federal law but is subject to change. We will continue to monitor new developments and report changes as they arise.

Key points to consider:

FAFSA and Privacy Protections: 

  • Information submitted on the FAFSA form is protected under the Family and Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Although FERPA restricts agencies that possess students’ personally identifiable information (PII) from releasing student data without consent for non-educational purposes, there is no way, at this time, to know if changes will be implemented to obtain or use FAFSA information for purposes other than financial aid. Click here for a full FERPA overview.
  • The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) has released recent guidance stating that it will pause all new documentation for manual identity review for the 2025-26 FAFSA while it works towards a long-term solution for accepting and reviewing identity documents.
  • If you have previously submitted a FAFSA, your information, including any information you may have provided about a parent or spouse who does not have a SSN or has not filed a federal tax return, is already on file with the DOE.
     

The FAFSA and NYS Financial Aid: 

  • NYS grant and scholarship programs currently require NYS residents who are U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens to complete the FAFSA as part of the NYS financial aid application process. HESC is working on creating alternative pathways for students from mixed-status families to safely apply for state-funded financial aid.
  • Students who do not meet residency eligibility criteria can apply for state financial aid through the NYS DREAM Act application to access TAP and other state-funded scholarships and awards. NYS is committed to maintaining the privacy and security of all student and parent personal data it receives through NYS DREAM Act applications.
     

Eligibility for NYS Financial Aid Programs for Mixed-Status Families: 

  • NYS residents from mixed-status families who are comfortable completing the FAFSA can proceed with their applications at studentaid.gov. Students who list a NYS college on their FAFSA can then apply for the NYS Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) through the link provided at the end of the FAFSA process.
  • HESC is working to create alternative pathways for NYS residents from mixed-status families who are not comfortable completing the FAFSA to apply for state-funded financial aid. Be sure to sign up for texts to get updates regarding mixed-status families and applying for NYS financial aid.


Federal and State Law: 

  • Currently, neither federal nor New York State law requires the disclosure of information to officers conducting immigration enforcement absent a judicial subpoena or court order. Providing such information without proper legal authorization would breach both state and federal data privacy laws. New York State remains dedicated to upholding these laws and policies to ensure the safeguarding of all student data.

Steps to Take Right Now

If you are a student from a mixed-status family, here are some steps you can take right now to help navigate the financial aid process and explore educational opportunities: 

Sign Up for Notifications: Sign up for text or email alerts to receive updates about mixed-status families and applying for NYS financial aid.

Identify FAFSA Contributors: The Parent Wizard Tool helps students identify which parent(s) need to be FAFSA contributors.

Meet with Your School Counselor: Counselors can help guide you through the financial aid process, answer questions about eligibility, and connect you to resources. 

Gather Your Financial Information: Be sure to have all necessary documents, such as tax returns, income statements, and other financial documents needed to apply for financial aid programs.

Visit Your Local Community College: Community colleges often have more affordable tuition and can offer pathways to transfer to four-year universities. Exploring transfer options can be an effective way to save money while pursuing a higher education degree. 

Research Private Scholarships and Aid: Look for scholarships, grants, and aid opportunities available for students from private sources other than the state and federal government. 

Attend Financial Aid Workshops and Information Sessions: HESC offers free virtual workshops and events to help answer questions and guide families through the application process for grants, scholarships, and other types of financial aid. 

Additional Resources

Need Help?

HESC hosts events where students and families can find answers to their financial aid questions and receive personalized support throughout the financial aid application process. Be sure to sign up for text or email alerts to get updates regarding mixed-status families and applying for NYS financial aid.