Unlock free money through the FAFSA
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the very first step toward obtaining free money for your education. Did you know that 62% of the Vermonters we surveyed are concerned about lack of financial aid availability, yet over $4.6 million in Pell Grant money was left on the table by the high school class of 2017 in Vermont alone?
How did this happen? 45% percent of Vermont graduates didn’t complete the FAFSA.
While the Pell Grant alone may not fund all of your education, there are resources available here in Vermont to help navigate federal financial aid. Plus, financial aid isn’t just for students looking to attend four-year colleges and universities. The FAFSA unlocks opportunities for students interested in community college; career, trade, or vocational school; and online school, too.
Here are a few ways you can find information about financial aid, including the different kinds and how to apply:
- Visit our financial aid resource page, where you can learn the difference between grants, loans, and scholarships.
- Read up about the millions of dollars in new state aid available for the 2022-2023 school year.
- Utilize the pros at VSAC:
- Bust the myths about financial aid. The Federal Student Aid website has a great round-up of common (incorrect) assumptions.
- Know about deadlines.
- Stay up-to-date. The FAFSA evolves every year. Know about any new changes now to prevent confusion later.
- Avoid scams. Applying for financial aid involves sharing personal data, so you should always make sure the website you are on or person you are speaking with is legitimate. The Federal Student Aid website contains a list of common scams and things to look out for.
- Access the FAFSA application!
