About the State Grant Program
This program allows eligible Pennsylvania residents to obtain financial assistance for undergraduate study at any PHEAA-approved institution of higher education. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) serves as the program’s application.
Find out what you need to fill out the FAFSA and how to complete it online for faster processing. Keep in mind that for Pennsylvania’s State Grant program, your completed FAFSA must be received by:
May 1 - immediately preceding the academic year for: 1) all renewal applicants 2) new applicants who plan to enroll in an undergraduate baccalaureate degree program, and 3) those in college transfer programs at two-year public or junior colleges.
August 1 - immediately preceding the academic year for first-time applicants who plan to enroll in: 1) a business, trade or technical school, 2) a hospital school of nursing, or 3) a two-year terminal (i.e. nontransferable two-year degree) program at a community, junior, or four-year college.
View the State Grant Award Estimates.
Students attending summer classes may also qualify for State Grant funds.
Students attending postsecondary schools in Maryland, New Jersey, or New York are not able to receive State Grant funds (certain exceptions may apply).
We encourage you to apply even if the deadlines have passed. Late applications may qualify for an award if funds permit.
For more information, call toll-free: 1-800-692-7392.
Eligibility Requirements
- Meet criteria for financial need.
- Be enrolled at least half-time in a PHEAA-approved undergraduate program of study and not already have a 4-year (or more) undergraduate degree.
- Earn, through classroom instruction, at least 50% of the total credits/clock hours required for completing the program of study.
- Be a high school graduate or the recipient of a GED.
- Demonstrate academic progress (for continued aid).
- Be a Pennsylvania resident (domiciliary).