The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships is committed to assisting students and families through the financial aid process from application to graduation. The office serves as a reliable source of information on types of financial aid available so students can maximize their aid options, making their higher education investment an affordable one.  

Direct assistance is available in-person or virtually though walk-in hours and appointments. Walk-In services are offered Monday-Thursday from 10a-12p and 2p-4p at the Penguin Service Center. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 330-941-3505 

Announcements

Upcoming Financial Aid Events

Perfect for high school juniors and seniors and their families to help plan for college!

College Planning Night at the YSU building in Steubenville on Thursday, October 15

Financial Aid Night at Stambaugh Auditorium in Youngstown on Thursday, October 22.

Both events will feature a helpful presentation, FAFSA assistance, and the chance to speak with representatives from many campus resources. Click HERE for more details, to choose which event you would like to attend, and to register.

Now Offering Virtual Walk-In Sessions

If you need financial aid assistance, and are unable to come to the office in person, you can take advantage of our new Virtual Walk-In sessions during our regular walk-in hours, Monday-Thursday 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm.  To access the virtual walk-in option, you must check-in during walk-in hours HERE. 

Summer Aid Application Now Available

Students attending the Summer 2026 semester can submit the online Summer Aid Application to move a portion of the aid from Fall and Spring to the Summer semester. Students are required to make a decision on their financial aid offer prior to accessing the application.

How to Accept Financial Aid Offer Webpage and Tutorial

Students who need assistance with accepting their financial aid on the Penguin Portal can refer to our How to Accept Your Financial Aid webpage and online tutorial.

Virtual Student Loan Repayment Presentation Available

On April 16, Citizens Bank hosted a Virtual Student Loan Repayment session for Spring YSU graduates. The presentation covered Loan Repayment Plans, Loan Forgiveness Programs, Default Avoidance, Money Saving Strategies, and Borrower Rights and Responsibilities.  Students are encouraged to view the presentation.

One Big Beautiful Bill Act

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law by Congress on July 4, 2025. This bill features significant changes to the Federal Pell Grant program, Federal Student Loan Program, and Student Loan Repayment plans effective for the 2026-2027 academic year. Students can review these changes in depth on our One Big Beautiful Act webpage.

The 2026-2027 Housing Grant Application is Now Available!

Students who want to live on campus next year can now submit applications for the 2026-2027 Housing Grant. Applicants must have a 2026-2027 FAFSA completed in order to access the application. For priority consideration, incoming freshmen should submit their application by December 1 and current students by February 15.