WASHINGTON REMINDS STUDENTS OF STATE GRANT DEADLINE

            HARRISBURG, April 29 - State Sen. LeAnna Washington (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) today reminded students and families that May 1 is the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) deadline to be considered for Pennsylvania’s need-based state grant.

            “Time is running out for students to apply for this very helpful state aid,” Washington said.  “With the rising cost of tuition, these grants are essential for families trying to afford college.”

The deadline for submitting the FAFSA to determine eligibility for a 2008-09 Pennsylvania State Grant is May 1, 2008.

The FAFSA is used to determine if students qualify for almost all forms of need-based financial aid, including the Pennsylvania State Grant, federal Pell Grant, many scholarships and institutional awards and low-cost student loans.

The State Grant Program provides funds to students who demonstrate financial need and attend an approved postsecondary educational institution on at least a half-time basis.  Grants received through the State Grant Program do not have to be repaid.