Peirce at Lackawanna College has answers to the most common financial aid questions below. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, please contact Student Financial Services (SFS), we’re here to help you fund your education and make the process as smooth as possible!
215-670-9600
PeirceSFS@Lackawanna.edu
What is included in a Financial Aid Award Package?
Your financial aid package may include a combination of:
- Gift aid: Grants and scholarships that do not have to be repaid.
- Federal student loans: Low-interest loans that generally require no repayment while you are enrolled at least half-time.
- Your exact package depends on your FAFSA information, enrollment level, and eligibility.
Do I have to apply every year for Financial Aid?
Yes. You must complete a new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year.
- The FAFSA typically opens in December for the upcoming academic year.
- Pennsylvania students must submit the FAFSA by May 1 to qualify for the PHEAA State Grant. Completing your FAFSA early helps ensure timely processing and access to the maximum aid available.
Can I be considered independent if I’m 18 and living on my own?
Not usually. Federal rules define independent students as those who meet at least one of the following:
- 24 years of age or older
- Married
- Veteran or active-duty service member
- Have legal dependents other than a spouse
- Orphan, ward of the court, or in foster care after age 13. If you do not meet one of these criteria, you must report parent information on the FAFSA.
My parents are divorced. Which parent’s information goes on the FAFSA?
You’ll report information for the parent you lived with most during the past 12 months. If that parent has remarried, you must also include your step-parent’s income and assets. Some schools may ask for additional non-custodial parent information if required for institutional aid verification.
If I’m married, do I need to include my spouse’s income?
Yes. Married students must report both incomes on the FAFSA, even if one spouse did not work or if you filed separate tax returns.
Should I wait until my tax return is filed to complete the FAFSA?
No. You can use estimated figures to meet deadlines. Once your federal tax return is processed, you can update your FAFSA using the FAFSA Direct Data Exchange (DDX), which securely transfers IRS tax information into your application.
How and when will I receive my Financial Aid?
Once your financial aid eligibility is determined:
- Federal and state aid (grants, loans, and most scholarships) are credited directly to your student account to pay tuition, fees, and book charges.
- If the total aid exceeds your charges, you’ll receive a refund for the remaining balance.
- Refunds are typically processed during Sessions 2, 4, and 6 and issued within 14 days of aid disbursement through your selected refund preference (e.g., direct deposit via BankMobile).
- First-time federal loan borrowers: Federal Direct Loans are disbursed 30 days after your first day of class, per Department of Education regulations.
- If your aid is reduced, delayed, or canceled, you are responsible for paying any outstanding balance.
What if I need additional help covering expenses?
Students may apply for:
- Private or alternative loans (based on credit approval)
- Employer tuition assistance
- Institutional payment plans offered through Student Financial Services
Our office can help you explore these options and develop a manageable payment plan.
Where can I get help or more information?
Our team is here to guide you through every step. Contact us by phone, email, or visit us virtually:
215-670-9600
PeirceSFS@Lackawanna.edu
Student Financial Services – Peirce at Lackawanna College
