How does need-based financial aid work at the University of Vermont?

At UVM, need-based financial aid is determined by your family’s calculated financial need, which starts with the FAFSA and, for many students, the CSS Profile as well. The school reviews income, assets, household size, and how many family members are in college to estimate what your family can reasonably contribute. UVM then builds an aid package around that number, usually combining grants, scholarships, work-study, and possibly loans.

For need-based aid, the most important step is submitting the financial aid forms on time. UVM is a public university, but it still offers institutional need-based aid through its own funds, and Vermont residents may also be considered for state aid programs. If you’re eligible, federal Pell Grants and other federal grants can also be part of the package, which is the best kind of aid because it does not need to be repaid.

The exact mix depends on your financial need and funding availability. Higher-need students are more likely to see grant aid and work-study, while some packages may also include federal student loans to help cover the remaining cost.