There has never been a better time to be a student in Vermont.
There is more financial aid than ever to help you reach your goals. Whether you are looking for a short-term certificate, an associate degree, or bachelor’s degree, check out these opportunities at Vermont’s career and technical centers, and public colleges and universities. But do it now – with some programs, this money is limited and will go quickly!
This page provides an overview of the financial aid programs available in Vermont. If you’re just getting started, check out our financial aid overview. If you’d like to be connected to Vermont’s financial aid experts, reach out to VSAC.
Tuition Assistance Programs
Vermont residents have access to a wide variety of grant (“free money”) programs to help pay for education and training. Some cover a portion of costs while others can pay full tuition.
Grants Available for In-State or Out-of-State Education Providers
Who: Vermont residents accepted or enrolled in a full or part time undergraduate degree or certificate program who do not already have a bachelor’s degree (except for medical students at UVM and students enrolled in a doctor of veterinary medicine program).
What: Financial need-based funding to support the total cost of college attendance.
How: Complete a FAFSA and the Vermont Grant application through VSAC. Learn more and apply.
Grants Available at Specific In-State Education Providers
Who: Vermont students enrolled at Community College of Vermont (CCV) with a family income of $75,000 or less, who have not completed a bachelor’s degree.
What: 802 Opportunity is program from VSAC that provides free tuition and the $100 administration fee for eligible students at CCV.
How:
- Complete a FAFSA and the Vermont Grant application through VSAC.
- Explore courses and register for classes (and apply for admission to CCV if you haven’t already).
- VSAC will work with CCV to pay the tuition and administrative fee.
Career Targeted Forgivable Loan Programs
The State of Vermont and VSAC are partnering to provide aid to Vermonters aiming to work in high-need careers. These forgivable loan programs support eligible students pursuing careers in the in-demand fields of teaching, mental health care, nursing, dentistry, and skilled trades. There is also a forgivable loan program for members of the Vermont National Guard.
How does it work? Students who make a commitment to work after graduation in their field in Vermont for a certain number of years are awarded an interest-free loan to cover the cost of their education (often including tuition, fees, room, board, and the cost of books and supplies). Once the the student graduates and the work commitment has been met, the loan is forgiven.
Green Mountain Job and Retention Program
The State of Vermont wants recent graduates to stay in the state. Students who graduated from a bachelor’s or master’s program at a Vermont college or university between December 2023 and June 2024 are eligible to receive up to $5,000 in loan repayment. Participants must still live in Vermont and work full time for an employer based in the state for two years after graduation. The program is administered by VSAC and UVM.
Still in High School? No problem!
Vermonters can get a free jump start on college credits before they’ve even graduated high school. Learn more about these programs and other ways to start earning a credential before you graduate.
High school students can take up to two college courses for free. Classes can take place in person at either the college or high school, or online.