Financial Aid and Scholarships

FOUR TYPES OF AID:

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Grants – Do not need to be paid back and are issued by the federal or state governments as well as individual schools.  Completion of the FAFSA determines eligibility.

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Scholarships – Also do not need to be paid back and are issued by the government, individual schools, and private organizations.  Eligibility varies but can be based on academic record, special talent, and membership in organizations.  Click HERE to learn more about scholarships and where to find them.

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Loans – Money must be paid back with interest.  By completing the FAFSA students can be eligible for loans through the government.  Private banks and lending companies also offer student loans.  The PHEAA Student Aid guide at the bottom of this page includes information on student loans.

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Work Study Programs - Students earn money through part-time employment while attending school.  Must indicate interest in the program when completing the FAFSA.

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FAFSA – Free Application for Federal Student Aid

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The FAFSA is the most important application to complete to determine eligibility for most types of financial aid.  Opens October 1st every year and deadlines vary among schools.  Click HERE for additional information on the FAFSA.

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CSS Profile

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The CSS profile is a more detailed online financial aid application used by approximately 400 schools and scholarships and is also available annually starting on October 1st.  Click HERE for additional information on the CSS Profile.

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Institutional Application

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Some schools have their own institutional financial aid application that must be submitted along with the FAFSA. 

The PHEAA Student Aid Guide is an easy to read publication detailing all federal and state aid available to PA students, including student and parent loans, along with the application process.   This is an excellent resource you can download and refer to throughout your college planning process.

 

Additional financial aid resources, including Seneca Valley evening program offerings, can be found HERE.