Helping students realize their college potential

More than 90% of the students we serve will be the first in their families to go to college. We help them recognize that they can be the trailblazers…that they are college material.

Read More

Shaping the education discourse

We facilitate forums for discussion and debate on local, regional, and national education themes. Nearly 1,200 individuals and organizations engage in these forums every year and are moved to action.

Learn More

Partnering with schools

Every student should have the opportunity to attend a college prep school. Meeting the challenge, our expert team consults with schools to build college-going cultures.

Learn More

Bringing students’ college ambitions within reach

A college education is a worthwhile investment. We help students place a downpayment on their future by awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships, a year.

Learn More

Expanding college access to all Philadelphians

PhillyGoes2College, Philadelphia Education Fund’s online college access platform, meets students where they are.

Explore the Site

Latest News

Fundraising

Help Philly Students Start 2022 Strong!

By Allison KelseyPosted: December 29, 2021

In just a few days, we’ll welcome a new year with all of its hope and promise. As our students...

Read full article >
College & Careers, General News

Students Meet College Admissions Staff at In-School Fairs

By Allison KelseyPosted: December 7, 2021

Although we are again able to take students to colleges campuses, College Access staff also bring colleges directly to their...

Read full article >
College & Careers, General News

PEF Receives $5M Grant to Expand College Access Program to 6th High School

By Allison KelseyPosted: December 3, 2021

On December 1st, 2021, local, state, and federal officials joined School District of Philadelphia and Philadelphia Education Fund leadership to...

Read full article >

For Students

PEF exists to help students achieve college and career success.

See our resources >

For Teachers

PEF helps teachers develop skills and strategies that drive student success.

See our resources >

For Schools

PEF supports schools in creating college-going cultures.

See our resources >

Did you know?

Philadelphia is the nation’s poorest big city and ranks 92nd out of 100 US cities in college attainment.

Did you know?

College graduates are 3.5 times less likely to live in poverty than those without a college degree.

Did you know?

Job growth in STEM careers outpaced non-STEM jobs by 300%.