The Grow PA Scholarship Grant program is now accepting applications for the 2026-27 academic year, according to Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23). The program provides grants of up to $5,000 per year for Pennsylvania students who pursue degrees or certifications in high-demand fields. Applications can be submitted at pheaa.org/growpa.
“Grow PA is about investing in our own students and giving them a reason to build their futures right here in Pennsylvania,” Yaw said. “When we support young people pursuing careers in high-demand fields, we’re helping them succeed while strengthening our workforce, our communities and our economy. I encourage all eligible students to apply as soon as possible and take advantage of this valuable program.”
The scholarship is managed by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). In its first year, nearly 5,700 recipients from 131 schools received grants. An additional $7.5 million was allocated in the state budget for 2026-27 to meet increased demand.
Eligible courses include agriculture, computer science, business, education, special education, STEM education, engineering, nursing, allied health, criminal justice and other programs approved by PHEAA. The complete list of qualifying programs is available on their website.
Applicants must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and agree to live and work in Pennsylvania in their chosen occupation after graduation for one year per grant year received. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. If recipients do not meet the work and residency requirement, the grant converts into a loan that must be repaid.
Those who received a grant last year must reapply for continued support during the upcoming academic year.
The General Assembly created the Grow PA Scholarship Grant program in 2024 to address workforce shortages in key occupations and counter trends of students leaving Pennsylvania for educational or job opportunities elsewhere.
Yaw has contributed to community activities such as coaching Little League Baseball and youth soccer (official website). He has also served as general counsel to the Pennsylvania College of Technology for over two decades and chaired its board since 2013 (official website). Additionally, he represented areas including Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan, Tioga, and Union counties (official website).
For more information about state news or updates on Sen. Yaw’s activities, visit www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or follow him on Facebook and X @SenatorGeneYaw.
