Student Financial Services

Types of Aid

An affordable education is available to you at UVM, and we offer many options to help you finance your education.

Our office is here to help parents and students understand the range of financial aid packages, student loans, and scholarships available.

Financial aid helps students and their families pay for college through grants, scholarships, work study, and loans.

Explore the different types of Financial Aid:

Grants and Scholarships

Grants and scholarships can be awarded from a variety of sources including UVM, federal, state and private entities. These funds are considered "gift" assistance and do not have to be repaid. Eligibility of grants is based primarily on financial need; although academic merit and/or course of study may also be issued.
Explore UVM Scholarships
Explore Non-UVM Scholarships

More information about UVM need-based assistance for Undergraduates

The renewal of university need-based assistance (which can include grants and/or scholarships) is contingent upon the student maintaining satisfactory academic progress and continued adequate financial need. By completing the FAFSA by the financial aid deadline you will automatically be considered for university need-based funds.

Vermont first-time, first-year and transfer applicants who demonstrate financial need, academic merit, and a commitment to social justice and/or to diversity and who submit their FAFSA prior to the priority financial aid deadline, may be considered for the UVM Henderson Grant. Eligibility for the Henderson Grant is based on financial need and will be indicated in your UVM financial aid award.

Federal Direct Loans

Federal Direct loans are offered to students to pay for education-related expenses, such as college tuition, room and board, or textbooks. Many of these loans are offered to students at a lower interest rate, such as the Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans. In general, students are not required to pay back these loans until the end of a grace period, which usually begins after they have completed their education. However, interest accrued may have to be repaid earlier.

Several loan financing options exists both for students and parents of dependent students. Learn about federal loans and interest rates.

Institutional Loans

UVM offers loan financing options to students through several institutional loan programs. Eligibility for these programs are determined through financial need. Loan terms vary by program and the promissory note should be referenced for full loan terms.

Private Education Loans

Private education loans may be an option for students and families seeking to supplement other financial assistance.

Dependent students would consider the benefits of the Federal Direct PLUS loan before applying for a private educational loan.
Since Federal loans are generally more attractive than private educational loans, we recommend students apply for financial aid and maximize their Federal loan borrowing before borrowing through private educational loans. Compare the differences between federal and private student loans
Learn more about private education loans and how to research your options

Federal Work Study

Federal work study provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. The program encourages community service work and work related to the student’s course of study.

What You Need to Know About Federal Aid

Federal financial aid included in your award is subject to change based upon adjustments in the Federal budget or to Federal aid programs offered.

Explore Financial Aid by Population:

Undergraduate Financial Aid

Financial aid for undergraduate students typically includes student loans, parent loans (for dependent students), and grants for students with financial need or who meet merit criteria eligibility.

State Grants

Vermont residents should submit a state grant application.
Residents of other states should consult their state higher education agency to learn about and apply for state grant opportunities.

Learn more about:

Graduate Financial Aid

Federal loans are the primary source of financial assistance. Graduate students may wish to explore funding opportunities through the UVM Graduate College and outside scholarships.

Fellowships, Assistantships, Traineeships, Stipends, and Grants
Funding opportunities may be available through the UVM Graduate College or your department. Students who wish to be considered for fellowships as well as admission must submit completed applications, with supporting materials, by March of the academic year preceding that for which application is made, or the program's application deadline, whichever is earlier.

Visit the Graduate College Catalogue to learn more.

Learn more about:

Medical School Financial Aid

Students at the UVM Larner College of Medicine generally finance their education through loans and service-based scholarship programs. Learn more about scholarshps, state grants, and loans available to medical students through Medical Student Financial Services at the UVM Larner College of Medicine.

Continuing Education and Certificate Program Financial Aid

Financial aid for continuing education and certificate (non-degree) students is limited and eligibility varies by program. Determine your eligibility and review other financing options here.