Vermont State University Class of 2028 on Track to Exceed Class of 2027 After First Decision Milestone on June 1
Significant jump in applications creates stronger pipeline of students
Despite a national Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) debacle which has delayed college decisions typically made on May 1 to June 1, Vermont State University (VTSU) is on track to welcome a larger class this fall than in fall 2023. Just how much larger remains to be seen, as students have until classes start in August to enroll. Colleges and universities around the country have been alarmed by the rollout of the new, streamlined FAFSA form, and have deployed additional resources to ensure families have the financial information they need to make decisions.
At VTSU, significantly more students are enrolling, particularly in online programming. “This is very good news for our growing university as we enter just our second year and we are humbled that so many more students are giving VTSU consideration,” shared David Bergh, Interim President at Vermont State University. “Our students have the opportunity with rolling admissions to make decisions over the summer, so I expect even more of those accepted students to commit to VTSU in the coming months. We are working hard to make our case to them, showing them that VTSU is a growing community of creative, active and engaged learners and a wonderful place to get your degree or certificate.”
VTSU enrollment officials credit a much larger pipeline of students and growing student interest in the school. To date, there is an increase in applications of over 14 percent year-over-year including a 23 percent increase in out-of-state student applications and a nearly 40 percent increase in students seeking online opportunities. At this critical juncture, there is a nearly 14 percent increase in accepted students leading to about a two percent increase in deposits over last year.
“The numbers themselves may seem small,” Bergh continued, “But given the challenges families faced with the FAFSA this year and all the changes that came with our unification, which cannot be understated, to be where we are at this moment is a great sign for our future. We are so excited for the fall semester ahead.”
“I am pleased with our progress to date given the headwinds facing higher education at this time,” shared Beth Mauch, Chancellor of the Vermont State Colleges System. “My expertise as a mathematics professor tells me that we are trending in the right direction and there are positive signs pointing to strong enrollment this fall. That said, we will not rest on our laurels and are working very hard to reach students who are accepted but undecided, as well as other, non-traditional students who may want to change careers or level-up their skills. There’s no better place to learn in Vermont than at our Vermont State Colleges – both VTSU and CCV–and we are eager to grow our student rolls to support a stronger economy and more robust workforce.”
This news comes just weeks after VTSU’s inaugural commencement where it graduated nearly 1,000 students prepared to help address Vermont’s critical workforce shortages, power our economy, and take on leadership roles in our communities.
“This first graduating class serves as such an inspiring example to those students who are still undecided about their post-secondary path. They are a living example of the power of education and training after high school to earn a degree that is relevant and prepares students for rewarding and well-paying careers,” added Bergh.
Vermont State University serves as a model for structured programs, multiple campuses, online, and hybrid offerings that meet students where they are to ensure they succeed. The enrollment process is no different. Students have until August for most programs to enroll in a flexible and student-friendly process. Additionally, students can live on-campus, commute, or take classes online. And very importantly, tuition is free for qualified Vermont students with family incomes of $50,000 or less and competitive financial aid offerings ensure a degree is within reach of all students regardless of age, circumstance or income.
Olivia Davis is a rising sophomore in the Health Sciences degree program and lives on the Johnson campus. She hails from Saranac, NY and is a part of the inaugural first-year class of VTSU and believes VTSU is a great place to learn and grow after high-school. “Whether it’s athletics, clubs or classes, VTSU just pulls you in and makes you feel at home,” said Olivia. “I’ve had an incredible experience on the Johnson Women’s Soccer team this year and can’t wait to return in the fall. On campus, faculty and staff are accessible, class sizes are small, and the atmosphere is welcoming. You are somebody here, not just a number. I’m studying Health Sciences and know that VTSU will prepare me well in the years ahead so I can get a good job and make a difference in my community.”
More information will be forthcoming throughout the summer as more students make their final decisions. You can learn more about Vermont State University at https://vermontstate.edu/.
