This handbook explains the "how to's" of financial aid, focusing on private colleges in New York state. The first section discusses financial aid, explaining that a student who needs financial aid is very likely to receive it. The aid process is outlined, step by step. This section also explains the types of federal and other aid available and tells the student what will happen after the forms are filed. A section on Internet resources tells the student where to look on the Web to download financial aid forms and to find information about applying. The "Campus Directory" section contains information about the more than 100 private colleges in New York, grouped by region, and provides admissions office addresses and other contact information. A calendar of financial aid deadlines is designed to help the student map a strategy for finding financial aid and comparing institutions. (SLD)