This story was originally published by the Bennington Banner on October 6, 2025
WINOOSKI — Now students from almost half of Vermont households can earn a two- or four-year college degree at Vermont State University — tuition-free.
Freedom & Unity, a new program managed by the Vermont Student Assistance Corp (VSAC) in partnership with Vermont State University (VTSU), provides free tuition to Vermonters with a household income of $65,000 or less, who do not have a bachelor’s degree and are enrolled in eligible undergraduate degree programs at VTSU.
“Thanks to Freedom & Unity, our current students as well as more working families, first-generation college students, and adult learners across Vermont can now access high-quality postsecondary education without financial barriers. This initiative reflects our mission to strengthen Vermont’s workforce and communities by ensuring every Vermonter has the opportunity to invest in themselves, pursue their goals, and shape their future,” said Elizabeth Mauch, Chancellor of the Vermont State Colleges system.
VTSU offers more than 100 degree programs across high-demand fields like applied technology, engineering, healthcare, education, and business. With flexible learning options — including in-person, online, and hybrid formats — and personalized support every step of the way, VTSU meets students where they are and helps them get where they’re going. And with free tuition for eligible Vermonters, learners from all backgrounds and life stages can access a transformative education that fits their goals and schedules.
“High-demand, high-wage jobs require students to seek education or training after high school,” said Scott Giles, President and CEO of VSAC. “And Vermont needs a skilled workforce. Thanks to the vision of Vermont’s leaders, more students from modest-income families—no matter where they are in their lives—will know that an affordable path with an array of choices is available to them. By expanding access to degrees, state leaders have created an historic opportunity for Vermont students of all ages to gain the skills they need for a brighter future.”
Jen Grandfield, a student in the Associate of Science in Nursing program at VTSU Randolph who expects to graduate in May 2026, shared, “The Freedom & Unity scholarship has taken some of the financial stress off me. It has helped me focus more on school without the burden of all the tuition costs. I am incredibly thankful and excited to be back in school to pursue a career that will open so many opportunities for me.”