The Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL)’s Rising STARS Tuition Assistance (RSTA) program (administered by The Pennsylvania Key) helps cover a portion of tuition costs for early childhood professionals.
This program has several important changes for Fiscal Year 2019-20:
- “Grandfathered” applicants seeking an AA, BA, or PreK-4 Teacher Certification will continue to receive 95% of tuition costs with a maximum benefit of $6,000 per individual. These applicants will need to transition to T.E.A.C.H. or another financial aid resource by Fiscal Year 2020-2021.
- For new applicants for approved CDA or Credential Coursework, individuals will receive 95% of tuition costs and fees net of other funding sources for approved credential or CDA coursework up to eighteen (18) credits.
- Additionally, new applicants for approved CDA or Credential Coursework can submit a request form (including receipt) for reimbursement for books after purchase.
- A voucher for the CDA Renewal fee for $125 will also be available now.
The application process for Rising STARS Tuition Assistance has changed as of July 1, 2019. For a tipsheet on how to apply, visit the Rising STARS Tuition Assistance page.
To learn more, visit the Rising STARS Tuition Assistance page.
Questions? Call 1-800-284-6031 or email pakeyvoucherprogram@pakeys.org.