Pennsylvania Financial Aid & Scholarships

Discover comprehensive financial aid opportunities in Pennsylvania, from state grants to institutional scholarships that make college affordable.

Pennsylvania State Financial Aid Programs

Pennsylvania State Grant Program
Need-Based Grant

Pennsylvania's primary need-based grant program administered by PHEAA.

Up to $5,500
Pennsylvania residents, demonstrated financial need

Key Benefits:

Need-based assistance
Renewable annually
No repayment required
For PA residents
Pennsylvania Work-Study Program
Employment Program

Provides part-time employment for students with financial need.

Varies by hours
Students with financial need, enrolled at least half-time

Key Benefits:

Part-time employment
On-campus jobs
Flexible scheduling
Work experience
PHEAA Academic Excellence Scholarship
Merit-Based Scholarship

Recognizes outstanding academic achievement in Pennsylvania high schools.

Up to $1,000
Top academic performers in PA high schools

Key Benefits:

Academic merit
High school achievement
Renewable
Pennsylvania residents
Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program
Career-Focused Aid

Support for students pursuing careers in high-demand industries.

Varies by program
Students in high-demand fields

Key Benefits:

STEM fields
Healthcare programs
Education majors
Loan forgiveness

Federal Financial Aid Options

Pell Grant
Up to $7,000+

Federal need-based grant that doesn't require repayment

Federal Work-Study
Varies

Part-time employment program for students with financial need

Direct Subsidized Loans
Up to $5,500

Low-interest federal loans with government-paid interest during school

Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Up to $12,500

Federal loans available regardless of financial need

Pennsylvania Financial Aid Tips

Complete FAFSA Early

Submit your FAFSA as early as possible to maximize aid opportunities and meet deadlines.

Apply for State Aid

Pennsylvania residents should apply for state grants through PHEAA in addition to federal aid.

Research Scholarships

Look for institutional, private, and merit-based scholarships specific to your field of study.

Ready to Secure Financial Aid?

Use CollegeCompass to track deadlines, find scholarships, and maximize your financial aid potential.