Student Aid Options
High school students and parents:
Wondering how families pay for college? There are three primary sources of financial aid to help students with college and training costs: Grants, scholarships, and loans. All types require a FAFSA form, plus usually another application.
Learn more about how financial aid works and attend a financial aid event in your community this spring.
Grants—including state aid for Vermont residents with financial need
Grants are a form of student aid that you do not need to work for or repay. That’s why they’re often called “gift aid.” Grants are typically awarded based on financial need, taking into consideration a family’s income and assets. There are many different grants available—including Vermont state grants, federal grants, and grants given out directly by your school. VSAC can help you access the full range of grant opportunities.
Scholarships—including financial aid for Vermont students of all kinds
Scholarships—like grants—are another form of student aid known as gift aid. Scholarships are offered by many different groups, organizations, and even individuals. They are offered for all kinds of attributes—and to all kinds of students. In fact, if you live in Vermont, you can take advantage of scholarships that are just for Vermonters. VSAC can help guide you through the scholarship search process.
Student loans—including loans for Vermont students and parents
Student loans can help cover the gap between the student aid you can access through grants and scholarships—and the full price of higher education. Student loans appear as financial aid on award letters. But loans must be paid back with interest (the fee you pay the lender for borrowing their money). So it’s important to carefully compare your options—and be aware of how much money you’re borrowing. We can help you get the information you need to compare both federal and private education loans—including VSAC’s Vermont Advantage loans.