Academics

Are there a minimum number of credits that I must enroll to be a part of the second summer of the PaSSS program? 

  • To receive funding from the PaSSS program you must be enrolled in a minimum of six credits and no more twelve credits. You may enroll for less than six credits, but you will not receive PaSSS funding to assist with the cost of your tuition. You may also enroll for more than twelve credits but funding is only available for twelve credits. 

Can I take some of my courses on-line through the World Campus or at another campus to participate in the PaSSS second year program? 

  • No. Since the PaSSS program is funded entirely by the PaSSS student tuition, PaSSS students must take classes through Greater Allegheny. 

May I take courses during either summer session and be a part of the second year PaSSS program? 

  • Yes, as long as you take six or more credits during any summer session you will receive funding from the PaSSS program toward your tuition cost. 

Do I have to take classes in the summer after my first year of classes in order to get funding through PaSSS? 

  • No, you can utilize the funding from PaSSS in between your first and second year OR between your second and third year. 

Are there required courses that I must enroll in to be a part of the second summer session of PaSSS? 

  • There are not any required courses. However, you should consult your academic adviser for appropriate courses that will help you make progress towards your degree. 

When should I schedule my courses for summer? 

On-Campus Housing 

Will there be on-campus housing for PaSSS students? 

  • On-campus housing is not available during the summer session. Please contact Tahira Walker at [email protected] for off-campus housing options.  

Engagement Funding

What is engagement funding? 

  • The Pathway to Success: Summer Start (PaSSS) Engagement Fund provides financial support to PaSSS students participating in engagement experiences that advance their academic, personal, and professional goals.  Its purpose is to promote student connections with Penn State by enabling their participation in co-curricular and extra-curricular opportunities, such as research, student organization involvement, community leadership, internships, arts and performances, and more.  

How can I receive the engagement funding? 

  • You receive it by enrolling in summer courses either between your first and second year of classes OR between your second and third year of classes. 

How much engagement funding can I get? 

  • You will begin your employment during the summer and have up to the end of the Spring semester to earn a total of $2,000. The pay rate for PaSSS employment is $10.00 per hour. 

Academic Funding 

Is other student aid for courses available? 

  • Yes, please consult with the Student Aid Coordinator at Penn State Greater Allegheny. They can be reached via email at: [email protected] or by phone at 412-675-9155. In addition, should other student aid become available to you because of your participation in the PaSSS program, you will be notified by way of your Penn State email.