What is New York Higher Education Loan Program?

The New York Higher Education Loan Program (HESP) doesn't exist as a single, unified program anymore. The term historically referred to various state-sponsored student loan programs offered through the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation (HESC). These programs have been largely phased out or transitioned over the years, with the federal government now playing the dominant role in student loan funding.

While there's no longer a program explicitly called "HESP," HESC still exists and offers resources and services to New York students seeking financial aid for higher education. These services now primarily focus on:

* Information and guidance: Helping students navigate the financial aid process, understand loan options (mostly federal loans now), and complete the FAFSA.

* Loan servicing: For students who *did* obtain state-sponsored loans through earlier iterations of HESP-like programs, HESC might still service those loans.

* Grants and scholarships: HESC may administer certain state-level grant programs that help New York students pay for college.

In short, if you hear "New York Higher Education Loan Program" or "HESP," understand it's a historical reference. For current information on student financial aid in New York, you should look to the official HESC website directly.