​Each student must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application before the college can award the student financial aid.  The financial aid office at the college you want to attend will use the information on the FAFSA application to determine the amount of federal and institutional grants and loans you are eligible to receive. The Office of College and Career Readiness hosts a number of evening FAFSA Completion workshops throughout the area starting in January each year to help you and your parent complete the FAFSA application.  You should also check with your school counselor to find out if they are hosting FAFSA nights at your high school.
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) The Pennsylvania State Grant Program is a financial assistance program that provides funding to eligible Pennsylvanians and helps them afford the costs of higher education.

FINANCIAL AID - FAQ'S

There are four types of financial aid that are available to students. They are grants, scholarships, loans and the work-study program. The definitions of the different types of financial aid offered are listed below:
  • Grants - Grants do not have to be repaid. The federal government, state and colleges provide grant funds for students attending colleges, including career colleges and universities. 
  • Scholarships - Scholarships are grants or payments made to support a student's education, awarded on the basis of academic or other achievement.  In order to received scholarships, one must apply for them.  Scholarships do not need to be repaid.
  • Federal Work-Study - Federal Work-Study is self-help aid and is awarded to students with financial need. Students can work part-time to earn this award money. The money earned can be used to help the student with their additional tuition cost as well as personal cost. Work-study jobs can be found on or off campus through the school’s Financial Aid Office.
  • Loans - Federal loans are borrowed funds that must repaid with interest. A federal student loan allows students and their parents to borrow money to help pay for college through loan programs supported by the federal government. They have low interest rates and offer flexible repayment terms, benefits, and options.   There are several types of loans, so make sure you have all of the necessary information about each particular type of loan available to you.