Office of Student Aid : Aid Programs : Adult Learners : Applying for Aid

Applying for student financial aid is an easy electronic process. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA on the Web) is the only application required to apply for financial aid at Penn State. Students who complete the aid application process are considered for all federal, state, and institutional student financial aid programs.

• Apply for student aid by completing the FAFSA on the Web as soon as possible--even if you do not know exactly when you will start taking classes.

Important: You can still apply for student aid (primarily Federal Stafford Loans and Federal Pell Grant, if eligible) after recommended completion dates have passed.

• You must complete a FAFSA each year to continue to be considered for student aid.
• Half-time students who are enrolled in a degree-granting program (and meet all other eligibility requirements) are eligible for most aid programs.
• Alternative loans are an option for non-degree students, students who are less than half-time, or students who are enrolled in certificate programs.
• Students pursuing a second bachelors degree are not eligible for federal, state, or institutional aid--with the exception of Federal Stafford Loans for those who have not reached their career maximum.