Phone and text scams are currently underway targeting Erie residents and possibly other Pennsylvania residents offering “Pennsylvania Loan Forgiveness”. If you are contacted from someone stating:
“We are reaching out to you because your student loan has been flagged for the Pennsylvania forgiveness program. You are eligible to receive full forgiveness. This applies to all Pennsylvania residents. Please call our office back at (717) 573-8721 to be connected to your loan counselor. Again, that number is (717) 573-8721. Thank you.”
This is a scam! You should contact your loan servicer directly for any questions about legitimate loan forgiveness programs. Additionally, if you have been contacted about a loan forgiveness scam, a complaint may be filed with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.
Students can begin to apply for financial aid for 2024-25 by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) in December. Usually, the FAFSA is available to complete as of October 1. This year, due to FAFSA Simplification, the application will be delayed.
To prepare, check to see if your FSA ID account is ready. Existing customers may also need to set up two-step verification during the login process.
This toolkit is designed to assist in providing information on completing the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). From print ads to web banners, our tools help with FAFSA awareness.
Print this flyer and distribute copies around school or at popular events. Print on color paper for greater impact.
Get help with filling out the FAFSA with these basic tips and answers to common questions.
The PA FAFSA Go! Toolkit is a collaboration effort between PDE, PASFAA, PSCA, PACAA, and PHEAA, and is a comprehensive primer on creating an FSA ID, completing the FAFSA, and searching for scholarships.
Encourage students and families to file the FAFSA online by using one of these ads in your school's newsletter, newspaper, or other publication.
Remind students about the FAFSA and important financial aid milestones by using one of these sample social media posts on your school's Facebook page or Twitter account.
Newspaper Press Release
Advertise your school's upcoming financial aid nights by including our customizable news release in your school's newspaper, newsletter, or local news outlet.
FAFSA Fillable Postcard
This FREE postcard will further help promote your event—simply add the date and time of your event and send them out approximately 1 month before your event.
FAFSA Recognition Cards
Use these cards to recognize students that have filed the FAFSA.
FAFSA Checklist
Let students and families know what information they will need to have handy when sitting down to complete the FAFSA.
FAFSA Table Tent
Use these table tents to remind students/families to complete the State Grant Form directly from the FAFSA.
Financial Aid Comparisons Worksheet
Hand out this worksheet to students to make it easier for them to keep track of their student aid packages.
Federal Student Aid Resources
Students and families can preview how to request an FSA ID. An FSA ID is required for students who apply for financial aid using the FAFSA. Dependent students will need an FSA ID for one of their parents as well.
Use this customizable message in an email or newsletter to remind families of FAFSA completion deadlines.
Contact your Higher Education Access Partner for additional details and assistance.