Understanding Financial Aid

Have questions about financial aid? Join us online for a Financial Aid webinar. These Zoom sessions will provide valuable information about financial aid available and the application process for students starting in Fall 2024. Feel free to join us for one or more of the sessions:

Once you register by clicking on the link above, you will receive a link to enter the Zoom room. You can register at any time leading up to the webinar, and even join a session in progress.  

Need more information?

If you have questions about financial aid at Penn State Behrend or need assistance navigating Penn State's financial aid award notification or billing processes, please contact the Office of Financial Aid by phone, 814-898-6162, or email, [email protected].

Recommended FAFSA Deadline and Award Notifications

First-year students starting in a fall semester are encouraged to complete the online FAFSA by the December 1 prior to their start. (The FAFSA opens on October 1 each year.) If you are from Pennsylvania, the state deadline for the FAFSA is May 1. Award notifications will be sent electronically starting in mid-February.

Apply Now for Special Scholarship Opportunities

First-year students are automatically considered for most academic scholarships at Penn State Behrend, but there are several scholarships that require a special application. Please refer to the Undergraduate Scholarship site for more information and upcoming deadlines

Additional Loan Opportunities Available

After you receive your Student Aid Award Notification, if you would like to pursue additional loan opportunities, you can apply online for a Federal Direct Parent Loan (PLUS) or an Alternative Loan after June 1 before the school year you are starting. All first-year students will spend a day on campus to meet with a faculty adviser and schedule their fall courses. A Financial Aid and Billing presentation held that day will help you in completing your next steps. Read more information regarding loan opportunities.

Looking for a job on campus?

Students have many opportunities for college employment.