Download Image: Web
Lycoming College has announced the creation of the PA Scholars Initiative, a new effort to support high-achieving Pennsylvania students with significant financial need. Rooted in the College’s legacy of educating Pennsylvania scholars, the program ensures that the selected cohort will have their full demonstrated financial need met. In doing so, Lycoming has removed cost as a barrier to earning a degree from a top 100 national liberal arts college.
“We strive to equip students to pursue knowledge, discover their passions, and use their gifts to contribute to the world in meaningful ways. This initiative is one more way we ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of that journey—it’s about helping them take the next bold step toward their dreams.”
To qualify, students must rank in the top 15 percent of their graduating class, be eligible for a full Pell Grant, and submit a letter of support from their school counselor. Counselor recommendations will play a key role in identifying top candidates and allow schools across Pennsylvania to lift up students they believe would benefit most from the program. Those officially selected for the PA Scholars Initiative will receive a financial aid package that meets full need to cost, as well as enhanced mentoring and support designed to help them thrive on campus and beyond.
“We believe that talent and promise deserve opportunity,” said Chip Edmonds, Ed.D. ’98, president of the College. “We strive to equip students to pursue knowledge, discover their passions, and use their gifts to contribute to the world in meaningful ways. This initiative is one more way we ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of that journey—it’s about helping them take the next bold step toward their dreams.”
Jessica E. Snover ’17, director of admissions, noted that the program reflects what she and her admissions colleagues have heard for years in conversations with families across the state. “We see so many students who assume a private education is unattainable,” Snover said. “The PA Scholars Initiative sends a clear message: affordability and excellence go hand in hand at Lycoming. Young people with the drive and the talent to succeed should know they belong here.”
To be considered, students must submit the Common Application or the Coalition Application (powered by Scoir) along with the FAFSA by December 1.
Lycoming College’s commitment to supporting high-need, high-achieving students has earned national recognition, ranking No. 5 in the nation for Social Mobility in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges list. The PA Scholars Initiative builds on that success, strengthening Lycoming’s tradition of ensuring Pennsylvania’s most promising scholars can flourish.