Prepare

Before you apply, check if you are eligible.

Am I Eligible?

To be considered for PA-TIP, you must:

  • Be a U.S. Citizen, or eligible noncitizen as described on the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
  • Be a domiciliary of Pennsylvania.
  • Have a high school diploma, GED, or recognized homeschool certificate.
  • File a current year FAFSA.
  • Complete and return the PA-TIP Student Application to PHEAA by May 1.
  • Be under the maximum PA-TIP award counter.
  • Be enrolled at an institution approved by PHEAA.
  • Be enrolled in an approved program of study that is at least 10 weeks but less than two academic years in length. Students attending non-profit institutions must be enrolled at least half-time in an approved program. All other students must be enrolled full-time.
  • Have financial need as determined by the program guidelines and certified by the school.
  • Not be in default or pending default on an education loan or owe a PA State Grant refund.
  • Not be receiving a PA State Grant for the program of study.
  • Not be considered an incarcerated student, which is consistent with guidelines associated with the PA State Grant Program.
  • Supply a copy of the DD214 Form if the applicant is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces and was honorably discharged.

NOTE: Students who have completed a bachelor's or graduate degree are still eligible to apply for a PA-TIP award.