The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) reminds high school students and their families that its 2026-27 PA Student Aid Guide is now available to help them navigate the college planning process. The guide is available in both English and Spanish versions and can be found under the College Planning section of pheaa.org.
The PA Student Aid Guide is Pennsylvania’s most comprehensive financial aid publication, offering in-depth information on the federal student aid process and details on Pennsylvania’s aid programs, including the need-based PA State Grant Program. It is available to all students and families at no cost.
“It is often both confusing and overwhelming to plan for higher education,” said Senator Wayne Fontana, Chairman of the PHEAA Board. “If you’re looking for a set of instructions to guide you through and help you make the best decisions for your situation, look no further. PHEAA’s Student Aid Guide is exactly what you need to successfully plan.”
The online version of the PA Student Aid Guide is interactive and provides links to information on:
- Qualifying for grants, scholarships, and other free aid that does not need to be repaid
- Work-study programs that allow students to earn money to help cover their education costs
- Loans that are available to students and parents to help pay for their education
- Career and salary information
- Access to checklists, timelines, applications, and forms for financial aid
Every fall, PHEAA distributes a printed copy to the counselors at most high schools in Pennsylvania, along with instructions on how to order a supply for their students at pheaa.org/order-online. Every student who is interested in pursuing postsecondary education should see their school counselor to get their copy. A digital copy is also available at pheaa.org/StudentAidGuide.
“We offer families a variety of free resources to help them successfully navigate the financial aid process,” said Jim Steeley, PHEAA President and CEO. “This guide is the most comprehensive compilation of the information they need to understand the college planning process.”
Students and families are encouraged to visit PHEAA on Facebook, X (@PHEAAaid), Instagram, and LinkedIn where they can learn more about the college financial aid process, register for reminders of financial aid deadlines, and get information pertaining to planning for college. Video tutorials explaining the student aid process and types of aid available can be found at youtube.com/PHEAAStudentAid.
