Vermont Incentive Grants

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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 $500 to $10,800 during the 2008-2009 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 Grants are awarded to eligible students with financial need who are pursuing their first undergraduate degree on either a full-time or part-time basis. During the 2008-2009 academic year, Federal Pell Grants for full-time students ranged from $523 to $4,731. To apply for a Pell Grant, use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

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.