Financing a Penn State education involves a partnership between the Penn State Office of Student Aid and you. Please keep in mind that your student aid may not meet all of your educational costs. You and your family must be prepared to meet the difference between educational costs and available student aid.

As you explore the academic choices Penn State offers, keep in mind that a Penn State education is a high-quality education and an excellent investment in your future.

Penn State does participate in all federal, state, and institutional student financial aid programs. It is important to note that educational loans are considered a form of student aid, and most Penn State students and their families heavily rely on educational loans to finance their degree. Reliance on educational loans as a primary source of aid is a common occurrence across the nation. Of all undergraduate students who apply for student financial aid at Penn State, 80% rely on loans - possibly in combination with other student aid programs - for assistance.

The Step Guide is designed to give you an overview of the aid application process and provide you with the basic information you need to make applying to Penn State stress free.