HARRISBURG, Pa. — The financial deadline for Pennsylvania students enrolling in college and other educational programs is rapidly approaching, state officials said. Students must file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be eligible for a state grant award, according to the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.
- PHEAA urges Pa. students to submit a FAFSA for various educational programs by Aug. 1, to qualify for PA State Grant Award
- Chairman Wayne Fontana emphasizes the grant's importance in supporting education beyond traditional four-year degrees
- PHEAA President James Steeley highlights the need for students to explore free aid options before considering loans
Those interested in the grant should complete the 2023-24 FAFSA online through the PHEAA website.
Sen. Wayne Fontana, D-Allegheny, and the PHEAA Board of Directors chairman, emphasized the importance of the Aug. 1 deadline, noting that a PA State Grant can help alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education in various areas.
“Not everyone dreams of a four-year degree. For many, the path to their future lies in a community college program, a nursing program, or a trade school, just to name a few," Wayne said.
While late applications will be considered, PHEAA says acceptance depends on the availability of funds for federal student aid programs and potential PA State Grant support.
“Ongoing in PHEAA’s public service mission is the idea that students should exhaust every form of free aid before giving any consideration to borrowing.”PHEAA President and CEO James Steeley
Seeking support before borrowing
The State Grant program is designed to help ease students' financial challenges, PHEAA President and CEO James Steeley said. He stressed that students should explore all available free aid options before considering loans.
“Ongoing in PHEAA’s public service mission is the idea that students should exhaust every form of free aid before giving any consideration to borrowing,” he said.
“The PA State Grant Program provides a need-based grant to recipients – which does not need to be repaid. Every college-bound student should make it a priority during their search for financial aid.”
