Admissions and Student Aid Timeline

Planning for college starts with understanding key deadlines and making informed financial aid decisions. Below is a timeline to help students and families navigate the Penn State Greater Allegheny Admissions and Student Aid process effectively.

  • August 1—Penn State application opens

  • October 1—FAFSA Opens (Learn how to complete the FAFSA)

  • December 1—Recommended FAFSA submission deadline for priority aid consideration

  • Early February—First-year student financial aid awards begin rolling out

  • May 1—Deadline to accept your Penn State admission offer

  • June—Returning student financial aid notifications begin

Financial Aid Tips for Students & Families

Navigating college costs can feel overwhelming, but planning ahead and following these expert financial aid tips can make a big difference.

  1. Compare the Total Cost of Attendance
    When evaluating colleges, compare tuition and required fees to get a full picture of the cost. Some institutions have hidden fees beyond tuition. factor in expenses such as housing, meal plans, and supplies.
     
  2. Save for Books and Supplies
    Financial aid disbursements can be delayed due to verification processes or technical issues. Having a book fund set aside ensures students are ready for the semester without delays. Students may also Charge Bookstore Purchases to their Student Account. 
     
  3. Monitor Your Credit (For Students and Parents)
    Many student and parent loans require credit approval. Parents should review their credit history early and correct any errors before applying for loans. Students should also practice good credit habits to avoid financial issues later.
     
  4. Never Miss a Deadline
    Missing a financial aid or scholarship deadline could mean losing out on thousands of dollars in grants and aid. Always apply early and double-check your application for accuracy.
     
  5. Check Emails and Notifications Regularly
    Most colleges, including Penn State Greater Allegheny, communicate important financial aid updates via email and online student portals. Students should check their Penn State LionPATH account regularly to avoid missing key messages.
     
  6. Grant Delegated Access in LionPATH
    Students can allow parents or guardians to view financial aid information, class schedules, grades, and holds through Delegated Access in LionPATH.
     
  7. Start the Process Early
    Applying early for admissions and financial aid increases the chances of receiving scholarships, grants, and aid. Attend open houses and financial aid workshops to stay informed.
     
  8. Work with Your High School Counselor
    School counselors often have local scholarship resources that can help reduce tuition costs. Students should regularly check in with their counselors for new scholarship opportunities.
     
  9. Attend Financial Aid Nights & Events
    Many high schools and colleges host financial aid workshops where students and families can ask questions and get expert guidance on FAFSA, grants, and scholarships. Check out our guide to complete the FAFSA.
     
  10. Financial Aid Covers More Than Tuition
    Financial aid can also be used for housing, meals, books, and other education-related expenses, not just tuition. Be sure to budget wisely to maximize your funding.

Additional Financial Aid Resources

Explore these helpful resources to learn more about funding your education:

Financial Aid FAQ

No—you can complete your FAFSA any time after October 1 if you are applying for admission for the fall term. Once you have been admitted, Penn State will download your FAFSA and notify you of your financial aid eligibility.

No—most forms of financial aid are available if you are enrolled at least half-time (6 credits) each semester.

The Office of Student Aid begins notifying students of their financial aid eligibility as early as February for the upcoming fall term. If you are a new student applying for the spring semester, you should receive notification approximately three weeks after your FAFSA has been submitted. Summer semester awarding begins in April.

You can either wait until your taxes are filed or you can estimate your income information on the FAFSA. We recommend estimating if you are concerned about missing the priority FAFSA deadline (December 1).

If you are concerned about paying for college, you can apply for student aid and potentially qualify for low-interest student loans which are not need-based. These loans do not require repayment while students are enrolled at least half-time (6 credits) at Penn State.

Penn State’s Title IV School Code is 003329.

You should log into your FAFSA and make a correction; you do not need to complete a new FAFSA. Make the correction by going to the school information section and adding Penn State’s School Code (003329). Ensure that you have successfully submitted the correction by reviewing your confirmation page. Penn State will receive your FAFSA information within a week.

You should file the FAFSA once per year. We recommend filing the FAFSA prior to December 1.