Pennsylvania State Grant Program: Prepare
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A Pennsylvania State Grant is based on financial need. Before you apply, check if you are eligible.
Am I Eligible?
To be considered for a Pennsylvania State Grant, you must demonstrate financial need AND:
- Be a high school graduate as stipulated in the Pennsylvania State Grant law
- Attend a postsecondary school approved by PHEAA for Pennsylvania State Grant purposes
- Be enrolled at least half-time (defined as at least six semester credits but less than 12 semester credits per semester, or the equivalent)
- Be enrolled in an approved program of study of at least 2 academic years in length
- Be enrolled in a program of study where at least 50% of the total credit or clock hours needed for completion of the program are earned through classroom instruction:
- The program itself must be structured to allow you to complete at least 50% of your credits or clock hours in the classroom.
- Your enrollment pattern must also consist of at least 50% classroom instruction (unless you have a medical disability (PDF)).
- Make satisfactory academic progress (as defined by PHEAA)
- Not have already earned a bachelor's degree or its equivalent
- Be a Pennsylvania resident, as stipulated in the Pennsylvania State Grant law
- Be of satisfactory character (for example, not be incarcerated)
- Not have received the maximum number of Pennsylvania State Grants permitted
- Not be in default or pending default on an educational loan. This also applies to any program where the award has been converted to a loan due to failure to meet all eligibility or service requirements and the loan is in a default status.
- File and complete the application process by the appropriate deadlines
For more detail, read the Rights and Responsibilities Certification Document (PDF).
How Much Can I Expect to Receive?
The amount of money you can expect to receive is based on your financial situation, as well as the type of school you choose to attend in Pennsylvania. The following is only a guideline. The percentages indicate the number of applicants at each income level who may qualify for a Pennsylvania State Grant.
| Parents' Annual Income | < $25,000 | $25,000–$49,999 | $50,000–$74,999 | $75,000–$99,999 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Year private college ($30,921)* |
99% ($4,150–$4,348) |
98% ($4,000–$4,348) |
92% ($2,900–$4,150) |
50% ($1,400–$2,950) |
| State school ($8,640)* |
99% ($3,500–$3,700) |
98% ($3,350–$3,700) |
84% ($2,000–$3,150) |
36% ($1,100–$2,200) |
| State-related school ($15,607)* |
99% ($3,700–$3,950) |
97% ($3,600–$3,978) |
86% ($2,450–$3,650) |
36% ($1,600–$2,900) |
| Junior college ($14,426)* |
99% ($3,600–$3,978) |
98% ($3,500–$3,978) |
85% ($2,200–$3,400) |
29% ($1,000–$2,150) |
| Community college ($3,649)* |
99% ($900–$1,400) |
94% ($850–$1,350) |
57% ($600–$1,100) |
13% ($450–$850) |
| Nursing school ($11,154)* |
99% ($3,350–$3,700) |
96% ($2,650–$3,600) |
74% ($1,950–$3,200) |
18% ($1,200–$2,200) |
| Business, trade, or technical school ($13,081)* |
99% ($3,600–$3,800) |
90% ($3,350–$3,850) |
57% ($2,000–$3,200) |
18% ($950–$2,050) |
Source: Data from 2011–2012 State Grant statistics tape created August 5, 2011
* Average annual tuition and fees for 2011–2012
NOTE: If you plan on attending a school located outside of Pennsylvania, the maximum allowable award, subject to potential adjustment, is:
- $600 if you attend a school located in a "portable" or reciprocal state
- $400 if you attend a school located in a "nonportable" state
- $800 if you meet the program's definition of a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces
Supporting Content
Sign In/Create Account to:
- Apply for a State Grant
- View State Grant status
- Update address or school info
- or Create Account
Contact Us
By phone
1-800-692-7392
State Grant FAQ
- Special Message: Budget is Pending
- How do you determine my State Grant award?
- How do I make corrections on my State Grant Form?
- How will I receive my State Grant funds?
