Financing Strategies for Your Education

Financial aid typically covers only a portion of your educational costs and for the majority of Penn State students, these costs must be paid by the family using a combination of financing strategies.

Penn State offers a high-quality education, which is an excellent investment in your future. Financial aid typically covers only a portion of your educational costs, which include tuition and fees, living allowance (housing and meals), and books and supplies.

The Student Aid Summary Guide can help you estimate your educational costs. We recommend developing a financial plan for all of the years you will attend Penn State.

For the majority of Penn State students, these costs must be paid by the family, either through direct support or by using a combination of financing strategies such as those listed below.