Financial Aid Overview
Financial aid helps students cover the costs of college and career training through funding primarily from the federal government and colleges, offered in the form of loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Families are encouraged to explore all available financial aid options to reduce college expenses. About two-thirds of full-time students rely on financial aid to attend college. Most receive aid from more than one source. Each year, Unionville High School collaborates with PHEAA to host a Financial Aid Night, providing families with valuable guidance on the financial aid application process.
Federal Financial Aid
The federal government offers several financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans, and work-study programs. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required to assess whether a family may qualify for federal financial aid.
Pennsylvania State Financial Aid
The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) offers several financial aid programs for Pennsylvania residents. The state grant program is based on financial need. Additionally, PHEAA offers a student loan program for those who meet eligibility requirements.
College Financial Aid
College aid, also known as institutional aid, is financial assistance provided directly by colleges and universities. It can vary significantly from school to school. To find out if a college offers this type of support, visit the financial aid section of their website or contact the school’s financial aid office. Many private colleges require the CSS Profile — an online financial application used by certain institutions and scholarship programs to award nonfederal, institution-based aid. In addition to need-based aid, some colleges also offer merit-based awards. Unlike financial aid, which is based on financial need, these awards are given in recognition of a student’s academic, artistic, athletic, or other extracurricular talents.