Step 2: File Your FAFSA
FAFSA® is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, used to apply for federal student aid, including grants, loans, and work-study funds. At ̽̽, it is also used to determine your eligibility for institutional need-based grant, scholarship and loan aid.
Special Instructions & Process:
Other considerations
State Grants
State grant applications are in addition to the FAFSA. State grants are “gift aid,” which does not need to be paid back and are awarded based on your financial need.
- Vermont residents seeking an undergraduate or medical degree should apply for the ; those enrolling as non-degree can apply for the
- Out-of-state residents should check with their for information on available grants and how to apply
Outside Scholarships
Consider applying for outside scholarships that are awarded based on certain characteristics or qualities, such as academic achievement, and can be merit-based or need-based. Scholarships are "gift aid", thus do not need to be repaid.
Step 3: File the CSS Profile (for new first-time, first-year and transfer students for Fall 2025)
is an online application used by ̽̽ along with the FAFSA to better understand your family's finances in order to be considered for all sources of financial aid. As ̽̽ begins using the CSS Profile, the Profile information will be used in a modest and limited manner in consideration for awarding need-based financial aid effectively and as equitably as possible.
Special Instructions & Process for the CSS Profile:
- Opens October 1
- Some student may automatically qualify to file for free. .
- At ̽̽, the CSS Profile is not required for:
- International students
- Merit scholarship consideration (prospective, first-time, first-year and transfer students are automatically considered for certain scholarships when applying for admission)
- ̽̽ CSS School code is 3920
- Before you begin, check out these .
- We anticipate receiving the CSS Profile in mid-October. Expect to receive notification from ̽̽ when we do.
Step 4: Review Your Application for Requirements
Review your FAFSA for accuracy
You will receive an email from the Department of Education when your FAFSA has been sent to your selected schools and you can view your FAFSA Submission Summary on . Your FAFSA Submission Summary summarizes the data submitted on the FAFSA form. It will also show your official Student Aid Index (SAI) calculation and eligibility. You should review this summary for accuracy, and if needed, make any necessary updates or corrections by and making a correction.
New first-time, first-year and transfer students: Review your CSS Profile for accuracy
If you are a new first-time, first-year and transfer student, you should also review your CSS Profile for accuracy. If you found you made a mistake or need to include additional information on your application, you can update your application by clicking "Correct Your CSS Profile" on your .
Watch for information requests and monitor your application
Students are notified by email if additional information is needed. You may receive requests for additional information from ̽̽ (Check the status of your aid application) and/or your state grant agency. Please provide requested information promptly. Returning student financial aid offers cannot be completed until all requested information has been received and reviewed. Only send requested information. Receipt of unsolicited information will delay processing of your financial aid offer.
Step 7: Completing Loan Agreements, Entrance Counseling, and Other Requirements
Borrowers may need to complete a Loan Agreement (MPN), Promissory Note (PN), Entrance Counseling, Credit Check Authorization Forms, and/or apply for loans. Follow the links below to learn more about the requirements for your accepted loans.