Prepare

A PA State Grant is based on financial need. Before you complete the form, learn what you will need to apply, and what the eligibility criteria are.

Am I Eligible?

You may be eligible if you demonstrate financial need and meet specific requirements.

  • Are a high school graduate as stipulated in the PA State Grant law
  • Attend a postsecondary school approved by PHEAA for PA State Grant purposes
  • Are enrolled at least half-time (defined as at least 6 semester credits but less than 12 semester credits per semester, or the equivalent)
  • Be unconditionally admitted and enrolled in an approved program of study of at least 2 academic years in length
  • If enrolled at an institution that is not headquartered and domiciled in Pennsylvania, you must be enrolled in a program of study where at least 50% of the total credit or clock hours needed for completion of the program are earned through classroom instruction:
    • The program itself must be structured to allow you to complete at least 50% of your credits or clock hours in the classroom
    • Your enrollment pattern by term must also consist of at least 50% classroom instruction (unless you have a medical disability)
  • Have made satisfactory academic progress (as defined by PHEAA)
  • Not have already earned a bachelor's degree or its equivalent
  • Are a Pennsylvania resident, as stipulated in the PA State Grant law
  • Are of satisfactory character (for example, not be incarcerated)
  • Not have received the maximum number of PA State Grants permitted
  • Not be in default on an educational loan; this also applies to any program where the award has been converted to a loan and the loan is in a default status
  • File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) by the appropriate deadlines and complete the application process

For more detail, read the Rights and Responsibilities Certification Document (PDF).

What Should I Do Before I Apply?

Complete your FAFSA as soon as possible. After you complete the FAFSA, we will receive your information and invite you to the PA State Grant System.

You must activate your PA State Grant System account by setting a password and completing multifactor authentication. You can complete multifactor authentication via email or text message (if there is a phone number associated with your account).

NOTE: If you already set up your account with an authenticator, you can clear your browser cache and reload to see the email and text authentication options.

Check out our PA State Grant System resources if you need help.

Here's some information that you'll want to have ready:

  • If applicable, the month and year your diploma was received (for High School or GED)
  • Your Social Security number, not your parent's or guardian's; this will alleviate any processing issues
  • If married, your spouse's nine-digit Social Security number
  • If you have a savings account through PA 529, you may need a recent account statement for the total savings, or visit pa529.com

How Much Can I Expect to Receive?

The amount of money you can expect to receive is based on your financial situation and the type of school you choose to attend in Pennsylvania. Award calculations and amounts can range from a minimum to a maximum based on your circumstances and are subject to change annually.

NOTE: If you plan on attending a school located outside of Pennsylvania, the maximum allowable award, subject to potential adjustment, is: