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Affordable Education & Bright Futures; Students Can Graduate With Little To No Debt

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College is dedicated to delivering affordable, high-quality education that empowers students to succeed. At Penn Highlands, students don’t just earn degrees or certificates – they graduate prepared to shape their futures, equipped with financial freedom and unburdened by educational debt. 

Recent graduates are celebrating not just their academic accomplishments, but also the milestone of achieving a debt-free future. In fact, less than 50% of last year’s graduated class borrowed an educational loan. With tuition costs among the lowest in the region, additional scholarship opportunities, and support services, Penn Highlands ensures that higher education remains accessible to all. 

“The financial aid staff at Penn Highlands is committed to educating our students on how to graduate debt-free or with minimal debt,” stated Ashley Krinjeck, Director of Student Financial Services. “With the increasing costs in higher education, Penn Highlands can offer quality academic programming while keeping tuition costs affordable. This allows our students to start their next journey, whether into the workforce or transferring to a four-year institution to continue their education, with little or no debt.” 

During the last academic year, Penn Highlands provided $2.4 million in Pell Grants to support its students, with 75% of those in financial need receiving this crucial assistance. In addition, Penn Highlands awarded over $95,000 in scholarships, including Supporting Scholars Scholarships and Foundation Scholarships, further demonstrating its commitment to making education accessible and affordable. 

Currently, tuition and fees for Cambria County residents equal $7,110 (based on two semesters and 30 total credits). Eligible students may receive a Federal Pell Grant of up to $7,395 and a PA State Grant of up to $3,058, totaling $10,453 in Federal and State aid. This gives the student an estimated refund of $3,343. The student can use these excess funds for other expenses such as books, transportation, and living expenses. 

Students from low-income families can have the cost of college fully covered or face minimal out-of-pocket expenses, thanks to federal and state aid that covers their tuition. 

Penn Highlands also partners with KEYS (Keystone Education Yields Success), which is designed to help TANF and Food Stamp recipients succeed in community college. The KEYS program can provide additional supportive services available through your County Assistance Office for expenses such as childcare, transportation, and books. 

Learn more about the process of paying for college by clicking here.