How much does it cost?

A college education is actually an investment you are making into your own growth, and it can pay for itself in many ways such as increased income you may earn each year over the course of your career.  Before you make any commitments we help you understand the process, as well as all the ways to make your education affordable.  You may be surprised at what’s available for you.

Harcum Community Scholarship

Those attending Harcum at the Coatesville partnership site will receive a generous Harcum Community Scholarship towards their tuition that totals nearly $10,000 and also qualifies them to participate at no cost in the renowned leadership training program offered by I-LEAD.  Learn more.

PELL and PHEAA Grant

Students are also eligible for grants like the federal PELL grant (up to $7,395) and PHEAA state grant (up to $5,700 or more).  Grants do not need to be repaid, so these can dramatically minimize the cost of your college education.

Tax Credits

Another form of assistance is the American Opportunity Credit.  This tax credit (up to $2,500) is available to those who have paid tuition or other educational expenses and can further help students reduce the cost of their education by providing a reimbursement on your federal tax return.  (Free tax preparation by the LTM VITA program is available to Harcum students at the Coatesville Enrollment Office)

Employer Tuition Reimbursement

Your employer may pay for part of your education!  Many employers provide this benefit to their employees and it can be a very generous way to reduce your educational costs while developing valuable skills in the workforce that can increase your earning potential.  Talk to your employer to find out about this benefit, or if you're looking for work make sure to ask if this benefit will be available to assist with your career growth.

Scholarships

Scholarships can be a valuable way to reduce your cost to attend college and are available through local organizations, church organizations and other sources.  Harcum offers a large menu of scholarship opportunities for its students, including the Huston Foundation Scholarship for Coatesville students, and maintains this list of outside scholarships where you can research additional opportunities.

Start with the FAFSA

To really know how much it will cost you to attend college you should start with the FAFSA.  By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Harcum's financial aid office will be able to determine what types of assistance are available to you, including federal student loans.  Loans may be necessary after other forms of financial aid are applied, and according to the Federal Student Loan Portfolio there are more than 32 million students who use federal direct loans to pay for their education.  The good news is that student loan repayment does not begin until after you leave school, and after you have invested into an education that advances your earning potential and career.  There are also many affordable repayment plans that can work for any budget.  This easy to use Loan Simulator will help you calculate the costs of paying your loans once you leave school and select a repayment plan.

In order to maximize the amount of financial aid available, first-time applicants should apply for the PHEAA State Grant by completing their FAFSA before August 1st.  Students who complete the FAFSA after that date will still receive financial aid, but may not be eligible for the PA State grant.  Contact the Harcum College Financial Aid office or Coatesville Enrollment office if you have further questions or would like assistance.