Grants

Vermont Incentive Grants

Any Vermonter accepted or enrolled in an undergraduate degree or certificate program who will be attending college full-time, and doesn't already have a bachelor's degree, is eligible to apply for a Vermont Incentive Grant. Vermont residents attending the University of Vermont College of Medicine or enrolled in a Doctor of Veterinary medicine program are also eligible to apply. Vermont Incentive Grants, which are based on financial need, range from $700 to $11,200 during the 2009-2010 academic year. They can be used at schools either within Vermont or out-of-state.

To apply, complete a Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) and a Vermont Grant Application.  You can complete both the FAFSA and the Vermont Grant Application online.  Paper forms are also available from schools or from VSAC.

Vermont Part-Time Grants

Any Vermonter accepted or enrolled in an undergraduate degree or certificate program who will be attending less than full-time is eligible to apply for a part-time grant. Like Vermont Incentive Grants, Part-time Grants are based on financial need.  Applicants must take fewer than 12 credits per semester and not have received a bachelor's degree. The amount of each award varies, depending on credit hours. The application process is the same as the process for the Vermont Incentive Grants.

Vermont Non-Degree Grants

Any Vermonter enrolled in a non-degree course that will improve employability or encourage further study is eligible to apply for a Vermont Non-Degree Grant. Classes can be taken at a college or other educational institution; (such as a high school or technical center that offers a continuing education program, or a private organization that offers training courses). Non Degree Grants are based on financial need and the cost of the course the applicant is enrolled in. The maximum award amount per term is determined each year by VSAC. Applicants may receive a Non- Degree Grant for up to two enrollment terms per financial aid year (July 1 – June 30), and a total of six terms of Non-Degree Grants in a lifetime. Applications are available at Vermont Department of Labor offices, vocational centers, other schools, and VSAC.

Other Grants

Federal Pell Grant:The Federal Pell Grant Program provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate and certain postbaccalaureate students to promote access to postsecondary education. Students may use their grants at any one of approximately 5,400 participating postsecondary institutions. Grant amounts are dependent on: the student's expected family contribution (EFC); the cost of attendance (as determined by the institution); the student's enrollment status (full-time or part-time); and whether the student attends for a full academic year or less. For the 2009-10 award year (July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010), the maximum award is $5,350. The maximum amount can change each award year and depends on program funding. To apply for the federal pell grant you will need to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant, also known as the National Smart Grant is available during the third and fourth years of undergraduate study to full-time students who are eligible for the Federal Pell Grant and who are majoring in physical, life, or computer sciences, mathematics, technology, or engineering or in a foreign language determined critical to national security.
For more Smart Grant information please click here

Academic Competitiveness Grant: for Pell-eligible students enrolled at least half-time in their first or second year of study or in a certificate program of at least one year at a degree-granting school First year students: must have completed a rigorous secondary school program of study; have graduated from high school after Jan. 1, 2006; not have been enrolled in an ACG-eligible program while at or below age of compulsory school attendance. Second year students: must have completed a rigorous secondary school program of study; graduated from high school after Jan. 1, 2005; have at least 3.0 cumulative GPA at the end of first year of postsecondary study.
For more Academic Competitiveness Grant information please click here

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) are for undergraduates with exceptional financial need. Pell Grant recipients with the lowest expected family contributions will be first to receive these federal supplemental grants, which do not have to be paid back. These awards range between $100 and $4000 a year, depending on the time of year you apply, your financial need, and available funding at the school you are attending. FSEOGs are awarded only to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor's degree or any professional degree.

Institutional grants may be offered by your college. Check the college catalog, financial aid handbook, or Web site for information on availability and application procedure.