The Pittsburgh Promise is a last-dollar scholarship for graduates of Pittsburgh Public Schools, covering education costs at any accredited college, university, or approved trade/technical school after other grants and scholarships are applied. Eligible students can receive up to $5,000 per year, for a lifetime maximum of $20,000, usable within five years after graduation. To qualify, a student must have lived in the City of Pittsburgh and been enrolled in Pittsburgh Public Schools (or one of its charter schools) continuously since 9th grade, and graduate with at least a 2.50 unweighted cumulative GPA and a 90%-or-higher attendance record. Letters with Promise Student Portal login instructions are sent to all high school seniors at the start of senior year; the FAFSA and PA State Grant Form (PHEAA) must be completed by May 1 each year to keep the scholarship active. Students with a 2.0-2.49 GPA may still qualify for one year of funding through the related Promise Extension program at a community college or trade school. The Class of 2028 will be the final class eligible for a Promise scholarship.
Eligibility
DemographicsMust be a City of Pittsburgh resident continuously since 9th grade AND enrolled continuously since 9th grade in Pittsburgh Public Schools or one of its charter schools; Wilkinsburg students who attend PPS under the district's agreement also qualify. Not open to students outside City of Pittsburgh/PPS enrollment, regardless of Pennsylvania residency otherwise.
Applying
Last-dollar award of up to $5,000/year; lifetime cap of $20,000, usable within five years of graduation. Actual per-student amount depends on remaining need after other financial aid.