What are scholarships?

Scholarships are a form of gift aid that are based on financial need, merit, or both. These awards do not have to be repaid. The source for scholarships may be the institution that a student is attending or an outside source. 

Each year, Penn State enrolls many outstanding and academically talented students and therefore cannot assist all deserving students. One in five undergraduates receives a University scholarship. Awards vary and are determined by donor guidelines. The average award is $2,500 for the academic year. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit or financial need, or a combination, as defined by the specific scholarship program.

Penn State cannot negotiate student aid packages to match grant and scholarship offers from other colleges and universities.

Scholarship awards can be made by the student's campus, academic college, the Office of Student Aid, or other administrative units. Awards are highly competitive due to limited funding.

Scholarship Options

  • Penn State Greater Allegheny Scholarships
    We are extremely grateful to our alumni and friends who support our students through scholarship endowments at the campus, valued at around $3 million. These awards are available to new and continuing students and do not require an application. Eligibility for these scholarships vary and is determined by donor guidelines. 
  • University-wide Scholarships
    University-wide scholarships are available to new and continuing students. These scholarships are awarded from various administrative and academic awarding units. 

Specific awards for new students include:

Specific awards for continuing students include:

  • External Scholarships
    All students are encouraged to search and apply for scholarship opportunities outside of the Penn State system. 

Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to maximize consideration for all student aid. 

  • To view steps on how to complete the FAFSA, click here!

Questions or concerns regarding scholarships at Penn State Greater Allegheny can be sent to [email protected]. 

Note: Your correspondence should not contain attached documents requested for financial aid verification or documentation containing a social security number. We welcome via email any other questions or concerns.