Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Viva88Indian Aid (NYSIA)?
NYSIA is financial assistance for eligible students for study in approved, post-secondary programs at NYS institutions of higher education (IHE).Ìý It is not available for study at institutions located outside NYS.
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Who is eligible?
NYS residents who are on an official tribal roll of a NYS tribe, or the child of an enrolled member.Ìý NYS tribes include members of the Haudenosaunee tribes (St. Regis Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca – Allegany, Seneca - Cattaraugus, Tonawanda Band of Seneca, and Tuscarora), the Shinnecock Nation, and the Unkechaug Nation.
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Can the aid be used for general support such as room, board, or transportation costs?
Yes.
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Will receipt of NYSIA affect Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)?
No.Ìý Students may receive both awards.Ìý Receiving TAP does not affect a student's eligibility to receive Indian Aid.
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What does a student need to do to get aid?
1. For all applicants: submit a completed application prior to the deadline for each semester;
2.ÌýFor students new to the NYSIA program only: provide documentation of high school graduation or GED
3. For students new to the NYSIA program only: provide documentation of Ìýtribal enrollment;
4.ÌýFor students new to the NYSIA program or returning students who have transferred to a new IHE: provide documentation of acceptance at an approved institution of higher education.
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When should students make requests for aid?
Students should submit an application prior to the deadline for each semester.Ìý For fall: July 15, for Spring: December 31, for Summer: May 20.ÌýÌý
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What does the Office of Indigenous Education do with the student's application?
The OIE conforms with all NYS and federal states and regulations concerning the privacy of your personal information.
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What does the IHE do?
Initially, the IHE will verify the students’ enrollment and academic standing. Once the OIE approves an award and the IHE receives said award, they will apply it to student accounts.Ìý If there is a balance in the student's account after the award is processed, the college must issue a refund check to the student.
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How long does the process take?
From the time the OIE receives the enrollment and academic status back from the school, it takes about six weeks for the school to receive the payment.Ìý
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How can I check to see if the process is working?
You may call or email the OIE at any time to check the status of your request.Ìý Generally, you should check the status of the award if you have not received any correspondence from our office six weeks after the semester deadline.Ìý
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What is academic probation, and how does it affect a student's funding?
Academic probation, for the purposes of NYSIA, is determined by your IHE.Ìý Any questions about that decision should be directed to your IHE.Ìý Should your IHE determine that you are no longer in good standing, a NYSIA award will not be approved.
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What if a student transfers to another institution?
If a student has been receiving aid and transfers to another institution in NYS, they should submit their next application along with proof of acceptance into the new IHE.