Education
Ask about it
Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Pennsylvania Department of Education
Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts
Pre-K Counts offers free pre-kindergarten to eligible three- and four-year-old children.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency
Pennsylvania State Grant
The Pennsylvania State Grant helps eligible Pennsylvania students pay for college or career training.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaper
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal programs
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
U.S. Department of Education
FAFSA, the federal student aid form
One free form that opens federal grants, work-study and loans for college or trade school. Many states and schools use it for their own aid too.
Fill out the FAFSA online at StudentAid.gov. It is free; never pay to file it.
U.S. Department of Education
Federal Pell Grant
Money for college or trade school that usually does not have to be paid back, for students with financial need.
There is no separate form. Fill out the FAFSA at StudentAid.gov and your school tells you what you get.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Head Start and Early Head Start
Free preschool, child care and family support for young children from birth to age 5 in families with low income, run by local programs.
Find a program near you with the Head Start locator and contact it to apply.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Talk to a person
- PA 211
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988