Financial aide and enrollment

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I am so confused about paying for enrollment. I am in PA and qualify for a substantial Pell Grant but PHEA states that I can not use it because PA does not recognize WGU. I spoke with financial aide at WGU and because I am not starting till august 1st they were no help because I was told it was too soon to work on my account. I do ot want to pay full amount if entitled to a grant....anyone else have this issue?

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Specializes in Nurse Leader specializing in Labor & Delivery.

What do you mean, PA (Pennsylvania?) does not "recognize" WGU? Are you talking about the Board of Nursing? Are you an RN? I'm wondering if you want to enroll in an RN-BSN program, or prelicensure program.

If it's the RN-BSN program, state Boards of nursing do not "recognize" or "not recognize" RN-BSN programs because they only concern themselves with programs that grant licensure. They don't care about post-licensure programs because those don't affect the RN license. So I imagine they would "not recognize" ANY RN-BSN program, not just WGU (which is regionally and nationally accredited).

What is PHEA?

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no they do recognize the program as far as degree is concerned, I have ASN from EC. PHEA is where the FASFA info. goes to decide if one qualifies for any grants or loans. I do qualify and if I was attending EC they would send the monies to them but for whatever reason they will not release funds to WGU. Financial dept at WGU said they will look into it when I get closer to start date.

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If I were you Id do the math between another school with your substanical grant versus the cost of WGU without. I dont turn away from free money, unless its going to mean more out of pocket overall at the end of the degree, which it could since most schools cost more. A substantial grant is worth waiting for if you have to delay your start date. Either way, I wouldnt put all my eggs in one basket just in case. How substantial is "substantial" ? Good luck, I hope you are able to get the best of both worlds. Is it possible to escalate your financial aid situation with WGU? Ask for a manager or director or something? Surely theri must eb SOMEONE willing to help you.

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Specializes in Electrophysiology, Medical-Surgical ICU.

I think the issue is that most state grant programs go to institutions with in the state. I'm pretty sure if WGU was in PA they would recognize it but since it is based out of Utah you are probably out of luck. :-)

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