Financing options at Cheyney University?

I’m considering applying to Cheyney University, but I’m a bit tense about the financial aspect. Can anyone provide some info on financial aid options at Cheyney University, and how those work?

At Cheyney University, there are a range of financial aid options available to students that can help subsidize the cost of education. They consist of federal aid, state aid, institutional aid, and external scholarships.

1. Federal Aid: This is primarily need-based and requires that you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application becomes available on December 1 this year, and it's essential to fill it out as early as possible to maximize your aid eligibility. Based on the information you provide on the FAFSA, the government will determine your Student Aid Index (SAI). The SAI replaces the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and is essentially a measure of your family's financial strength. This could result in federal grants, such as the Pell Grant or the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, work-study opportunities, or loans such as the Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans.

2. State Aid: The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) provides various aid programs, including Pennsylvania State Grants, which are also determined based on the FAFSA data.

3. Institutional Aid: Cheyney University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Some are merit-based while others may be need-based. It may also be worth it to check out if your intended major has specific scholarships associated with it. Criteria can range from GPA, test scores, demonstrated leadership abilities, or even from being a resident of a specific area.

4. External Scholarships: Many local organizations, businesses, and foundations offer scholarships. It’s worth reaching out to your high school counselor or doing a quick online search to see what scholarships you might be eligible for.

Remember that financial aid packages can be a combination of any of the options mentioned, in essence, a mix of self-help aid (loans and work-study) and gift aid (grants and scholarships). Each student's aid package will differ based on their individual needs, merit, and circumstances. It's best to reach out to Cheyney University's financial aid office directly if you have questions about your unique situation.