Lancaster Dollars for Higher Learning (LDHL) will again offer interest-free loans to Lancaster County residents who wish to pursue postsecondary education on a full-time basis. For the 2024-25 academic year, LDHL will award loans valued from $1,800 to $2,000. The loan amount decision will be made at the board of directors' meeting in May.

To qualify, students need to be residents of Lancaster County and must attend accredited postsecondary institutions - such as a college or university, graduate school or trade school - full-time in the 2024-25 academic year. Additionally, students need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students can apply for a maximum of four loans - one for each academic year - and the checks will be sent directly to the students' schools to be applied to their tuition expenses.

Loan recipients have a six-month grace period after graduation or withdrawal from school. They must then begin their loan repayment at $110 per month. Students may also choose to pay off their loans early.

Applications will be accepted through Tuesday, April 30. To apply for an interest-free loan or to learn about ways to support Lancaster Dollars for Higher Learning, visit http://www.lancdollars.org.