E-mail This Page

Financial Aid Office

Student & Administrative Services Center, Rm. 1013 · (570) 327-4766 or (800) 367-9222 · Fax: 570.321.5552

Additional Information

Federal Tax Incentives

Students and parents of dependent students that file federal income taxes may be eligible for a tax credit or deduction for qualified education expenses, specifically payments of tuition and fees (including payments credited by educational loans). For more information on the Hope Credit, the Lifetime Learning Credit and the Tuition and Fees Deduction, visit the Parent & Student Guide to Federal Tax Benefits for Tuition & Fees Web site provided by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA)

Top of page

Student Loan Rebates

Student Loan Rebates is a program that allows you to help reduce your student loan debt. Various merchants will contribute a percentage of purchases you make from them toward your loan. Family and friends can join on your behalf. Be aware that two of the three program partners require online purchases.

Top of page

Other Financial Options

For many students, financial aid added to their personal resources provides all the funding needed to pay for college. However, in some cases, students and parents choose to take advantage of other financing options:

  • Pennsylvania College Savings Program 529 Plans: "The Pennsylvania College Savings Program is the tax-smart way to save for college. The program offers three college savings vehicles to help you and your family meet the financial challenges college presents. Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Treasury Department, the program provides a unique combination of state and federal tax advantages, diversity of investment options, high contribution limits, and no age or income restrictions."
  • Home equity loan – With interest rates currently favorable, some parents prefer to take out a second mortgage on their home rather than borrow through other available loan programs. (This is perfectly acceptable if this is what you choose to do.) You deal strictly with your lender, and it in no way involves the Financial Aid Office or affects any other financial aid you may be eligible to receive.
  • Personal line of credit – This allows you to pay for college expenses as they occur and repay the funds in accordance with the provisions you make with your lender. Again, this in no way involves the Financial Aid Office or affects other financial aid you may be receiving.

Finally, look for ways to reduce or spread out your costs while attending Penn College:

  • Consider a lighter credit load or part-time attendance. It will take you longer to get your degree, but it will reduce your tuition bill each semester.
  • Get credit for advanced placement, credit by exam, transfer credits, and military training you may be eligible to receive. This will save you both time and money. For more information, contact the Office of Admissions.
  • Look for used books. They are often available at a fraction of the price of new books.
  • Start buying tools early, and take advantage of sale prices.
  • If you live close enough, consider commuting rather than moving to Williamsport.
  • Consider taking summer courses at a college close to home if that college's tuition is less than ours and if the courses will transfer in.
  • Don't pay for something that you can get for free. Use the resources available to you at the College. You have Madigan Library, computers and Internet access, scholarship searches, application assistance, Academic Support Services, job skills workshops, resumé writing, student activities, and many other services available to you at no additional cost. With your tuition dollars, you have already purchased these services. Make use of them to get the most of your investment.

Top of page

Penn College Resources

Upon enrolling, you will interact with a number of Penn College offices, including Admissions, Bursar, College Store, Food Services, Residence Life, and Registrar. Refer to our Office Directory for a listing of Penn College offices and contact information.

Top of page

Student Affairs

The Student Affairs Office at Penn College contributes to the enrichment of students’ academic success and enhances their quality of life.

Top of page