PHEAA issues temporary waivers for some student grant programs, extends application deadlines

The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) Thursday moved to acknowledge sweeping changes that have forced colleges to shutter classrooms and move to online instruction due to coronavirus fears.

Thursday, the agency’s board of directors moved to loosen the restrictions on about a half-dozen grant programs that affect about 210,000 students, including those who receive state grants.

Awards to students who receive those grants to attend a brick-and-mortar college or trade school were capped at $4,123 a year, while aid to those who opt for online or distance learning were capped at $3,092.

PHEAA spokesman Keith New said the agency’s board on Thursday approved a temporary waiver that will allow students to use grants designed for classes on campus to continue their work online without a penalty or fear of loss of eligibility.

The board also extended the deadline for applications for state grants for the 2020-21 school years from May 1 to May 15.

“Families in every corner of the commonwealth are struggling to protect themselves while adapting their activities to this quickly spreading pandemic. We have been coordinating our responses with the governor’s office and appreciate his leadership as we all come together to help Pennsylvania students and families get through these challenging times,” said PHEAA board Vice Chairman state Sen. Wayne D. Fontana, D-Brookline.