717-397-7920 info@lancdollars.org

Take the next step with an interest-free loan.

The Application Process

Students may apply for an interest-free student loan for the upcoming school year beginning on February 1 and ending on the last Friday in April every year.

If an interest-free student loan is awarded, payment will be sent to the school or college to be applied directly against a student's tuition obligation.

Loan Timeline

Apply Online

2/01/26 - 4/30/26

Notification of Loan

6/05/26

Return Loan Agreement

6/30/26

Distribution of Funds

8/01/26

Repayment

Begins 6 months after graduation or ceasing full-time student enrollment

Online Application Requirements

  • Interest-Free Student Loans are available annually to legal residents of Lancaster County, PA.
  • Students must plan to be enrolled full-time at an accredited institution of higher learning. Loans may be attained for trade, technical, undergraduate, or graduate education.
  • Students must provide a copy of the FAFSA Submission Summary (FSS) form.
  • Students may receive a maximum of four loans from Lancaster Dollars for Higher Learning.
Andrew Gerges

"Lancaster Dollars for Higher Learning helped take away the financial stress of going to college."

Andrew Gerges
LDHL Loan Recipient

Apply for an interest-free loan.

Lancaster Dollars for Higher Learning is committed to providing interest-free loans to Lancaster County students based on financial need.

This program offers interest-free loans to students who are residents of Lancaster County and who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution full-time.

Without regard to race, ethnicity, color, creed, gender, or age, LDHL has helped students from Lancaster County realize their dreams of attending post-secondary institutions.

Loan application period is open from 2/01/26 - 4/30/26.

Apply Online

Faith Iseman

"Lancaster Dollars for Higher Learning has been a blessing to me, my sisters, and our family."

Faith Iseman
LDHL Loan Recipient

Loan Repayment

Students must begin to repay their loans six months after graduation, withdrawal or drop below full-time status from school. Repayment plans are automatically withdrawn from a checking or savings account. Full repayment of the outstanding debt can be made at any time.

Deferments

Repayment deferments are granted if a student provides proof of continuing full-time attendance in school, military duty, or missionary work.

Samantha Weigle

"The interest-free loan is so important. It takes away the added stress of knowing your loan is accruing interest while you're pursuing your education."

Samantha Weigle
LDHL Loan Recipient

Making higher education more affordable.

LOAN APPLICATION FAQs

Is a there a loan fee?

No application or loan fees.

Is a co-signer required?

Yes, a co-signer is required.

How much is each loan?

The loan will range between $1,800 and $2,000. The specific amount is decided by the Board of Directors in the spring for each annual disbursement.

How do I apply?

Complete the online application and upload a copy of the FSS (FAFSA Submission Summary) from the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

What is a FAFSA Submission Summary (FSS)?

Click here for a helpful resource link: https://studentaid.gov/articles/fafsa-submission-summary

How many loans can I receive?

Each student is eligible for up to 4 loans.

Do I have to reapply each academic year?

Yes. You must reapply each academic year.

If I get more than one loan, does my monthly repayment amount increase?

No. The monthly repayment amount remains the same. The length of the repayment period is extended depending on how many loans you receive.

Where does LDHL get its funds?

LDHL receives its funding through loan repayments and personal and business donations.