Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the standard application process to receive federal financial aid. If you are a Pennsylvania resident and complete the FAFSA by the PHEAA deadline, you are automatically reviewed for the PA State Grant through Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). Additionally, Penn State uses information from the FAFSA to determine eligibility for need-based scholarships and grants. New and returning students should complete the FAFSA in advance of the deadlines below for full financial aid consideration.
First-Year Students
- FAFSA recommended filing date: December 1 (Penn State federal school code 003329)
- PHEAA for Pennsylvania residents: May 1
Returning Students
- FAFSA recommended filing date: April 1 (Penn State federal school code 003329)
- PHEAA for Pennsylvania residents: May 1
Estimate Your Federal Student Aid
Students currently applying to Penn State can estimate the aid they will receive. If you’re not ready to apply for federal student aid but you’d like to estimate your aid, you can use this estimator. It is an early eligibility estimator that can help you plan ahead when it comes to paying for college.
Need Assistance?
If you need assistance completing your FAFSA or estimator, or you have questions about these financial aid forms, please contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243). If you are hearing impaired and have questions, please contact the TTY line at 1-800-730-8913.
Questions?
If you have questions or would like assistance from the financial aid office, call 610-396-6070 or email BerksFinAid@psu.edu. You can also visit the office in 14 Perkins Student Center.