PHEAA Contributes $50 Million to Education Grant Program

On June 20, state Sen. Tommy Tomlinson (R-6th) announced that the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) will be making a $50 million public service contribution to help supplement the Pennsylvania State Grant Program and increase financial assistance to students.

Tomlinson, who serves on the PHEAA Board of Directors, said the Board voted to spend the additional money which is funded entirely through PHEAA's business earnings.  PHEAA also incurs $15 million annually to administer the Grant Program and provide public service outreach, at no cost to taxpayers.

"At a time when the state is facing an economic downturn and funds are scarce, this additional funding will help to provide much-needed financial aid to Pennsylvania students," Tomlinson said in a release.  "PHEAA works hard to make college affordable for students and families, and this is one more way the agency is contributing to that goal."

He said that PHEAA has reduced costs and increased accountability and productivity in recent years – enabling the agency to turn profits back over to the grant program.

"PHEAA has also implemented key reforms, made fiscal changes and worked hard to streamline operations," Tomlinson said.  "As a board member, I am proud of the changes and improvements that have been made.  The end result will benefit our students seeking a higher education."

He said the $50 million supplement is expected to raise the maximum grant award from the 2010-11 level of $3,541 to $4,309, an increase of approximately $700. Additionally, the supplement will benefit community college students by moving the annual State Grant application deadline for non-renewal students from May 1 to August 1, which is expected to provide awards to approximately 15,000 additional students.