Pennsylvania students pursuing degrees in high-demand career fields can now apply for the Grow PA Scholarship Grant program for the 2026-27 academic year through the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA).
State Sen. Scott Martin, who authored the 2024 law that created the program, said Grow PA aims to strengthen the state’s workforce by encouraging students to study and work in Pennsylvania after graduation.
“Grow PA takes a student-first approach to meeting the future needs of Pennsylvania’s workforce,” Martin said. “This program tells students we’re willing to invest in their future if they’re willing to stay and work here in the occupations our communities need most.”
The program provides grants of up to $5,000 per year for in-state students enrolled in eligible degree or certification programs related to in-demand occupations. Award amounts depend on available funding and the number of applications received.
Nearly 5,700 students across 131 schools received Grow PA grants in the program’s first year. The 2026-27 state budget includes an additional $7.5 million to expand opportunities as interest continues to increase.
Qualifying fields of study include agriculture, computer science, business, education, special education, STEM education, engineering, nursing, allied health, criminal justice and others approved by PHEAA. A full list of eligible programs is available here.
To apply, students must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), commit to live and work in Pennsylvania in a qualifying occupation after graduation for one year per year of the grant, and reapply annually if continuing.
Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. If recipients do not meet the program’s work and residency requirements, the grant will convert to a loan that must be repaid.
