Complete the FAFSA

The first step in being considered for financial assistance is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is the gateway to all federal and institutional aid; by filling it out, students are automatically considered for most scholarships, loans, grants, and federal work study. You may file the FAFSA online at studentaid.gov. The FAFSA application opens in October. We highly recommend all students complete the FAFSA to ensure the quickest and most accurate processing.

Penn State's school code is 003329.

Complete the FAFSA

The Department of Education recently announced that the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will be available to students and families on or before December 1, 2024. The Office of Student Aid recommends that new students complete the 2025-26 FAFSA as soon as possible after the full application rollout and currently enrolled students complete the FAFSA by April 15, 2025, to be considered for federal, state, and University funding

FAFSA Application Deadlines

  • First-year and transfer students:
    For maximum consideration, complete by December 1 of each year.
     
  • Returning/current students:
    For maximum consideration, complete by April 15 of each year.

State Grant Deadlines

The FAFSA is also used to determine eligibility for state grant programs.

  • For Pennsylvania residents, PHEAA has a FAFSA filing deadline. Due to funding, late applications will not be considered.
  • Fall and Spring Application Deadline: May 1st
  • Summer Application Deadline: August 15th
  • Non-Pennsylvania residents should check on the deadlines that apply for their own state grant programs.

Additional FAFSA Notes

  • Some student aid programs continue to be available throughout the year so if you miss the recommended deadline, still file your FAFSA as soon as possible.
  • The FAFSA is a U.S. Department of Education form, and eligibility for most federal aid sources is determined by a formula developed by the federal government. Families experiencing special financial circumstances are advised through the application process to contact their financial aid office about such circumstances.
  • If you need assistance when filling out the FAFSA, call the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-433-3243.
  • Penn State Harrisburg does not require a separate application for our academic scholarships. All incoming and current students with a 3.0 GPA or higher and a FAFSA on file will be considered. Only a few scholarships require a separate application; see the scholarships page for details.