802 opportunity logo

802 Opportunity: Tuition-Free College for Vermonters

The Community College of Vermont and VSAC have partnered to make college more accessible and affordable than ever. Through 802 Opportunity, Vermonters with a family income of $100,000 or less can attend CCV tuition-free.

What is 802 Opportunity?

802 Opportunity is Vermont’s most generous free tuition program, making college more affordable for Vermonters. Funded by the State of Vermont and administered by VSAC, 802 Opportunity covers 100% of tuition at the Community College of Vermont for eligible students.

Whether you’re enrolling full-time or part-time, pursuing a degree or certificate, or returning to college after time away, 802 Opportunity can help you get the education you want — without the burden of tuition costs.

Read the Press Release
802 Opportunity. Read to earn your degree, tuition-free?

Eligibility & Resources

You may be eligible for 802 Opportunity if you:

  • Are a Vermont resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Are pursuing an associate degree or certificate at CCV
  • Have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Vermont grant application
  • Have a family adjusted gross income of $100,000 or less as reported on the FAFSA
  • Are a high school graduate or equivalent
  • Do not already have a bachelor’s degree

You can use the grant whether you attend full-time or part-time, and it applies to both degree and certificate programs at CCV. There’s no separate application for 802 Opportunity. Simply apply to CCV, complete the FAFSA, and if you’re eligible, VSAC will automatically apply the funding to your account.

Not sure if you qualify?
Use our quick Scholarship Estimator to find out if you’re eligible for 802 Opportunity or other types of financial aid. It only takes a few minutes and can help you understand your options.

Not eligible for 802 Opportunity?
Even if you don’t qualify for 802 Opportunity, CCV offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid resources to help reduce your costs. Our financial aid team is here to support you every step of the way.

Estimate Your Aid

Steps to Getting Started

1. Explore Programs & Apply to CCV

Learn more about the certificates and degrees available at CCV. Then start your free application—no test scores or essays required.

Start Application

2. Submit FAFSA & VT Grant Application

Fill out the FAFSA to see what federal aid you may qualify for. CCV’s school code is 011167. Complete the VT Grant application through your MyVSAC account.

Complete Materials

3. Register for Classes

Check out the course schedule and make an appointment to register. CCV offers hundreds of courses each semester in six different formats. Fall classes start Sept. 2.

Register Today

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible?

A student is eligible for 802 Opportunity if:

  • they are a Vermont resident
  • they are a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • they are pursuing an associate degree or certificate at CCV
  • they have completed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and a Vermont grant application
  • the student’s and/or the family’s adjusted gross income is $100,000 or less as reported on the FAFSA
  • they are a high school graduate or equivalent
  • they do not already have a bachelor’s degree
  • if already enrolled at CCV, the student is making Satisfactory Academic Progress

I am already enrolled at CCV. Am I eligible?

Yes. Returning CCV students who meet the eligibility criteria will now be able to attend CCV tuition-free.

How do I apply for 802 Opportunity?

There isn’t a separate application for 802 Opportunity. To qualify, complete these steps:

  1. Complete the FAFSA. CCV’s school code is 011167
  2. Complete the Vermont grant application
  3. Apply for Admission at CCV
  4. Explore programs and register for classes
  5. VSAC will work with CCV to pay the tuition and enrollment fee

When is the deadline to enroll in a degree program at CCV?

Fall semester begins September 2, 2025. Visit CCV’s academic calendar for dates and deadlines.

What costs are covered?

Tuition for eligible students is covered in full when 802 Opportunity is combined with the federal Pell grant, the Vermont state grant and the Green Mountain Grad. The $100 CCV administrative fee is also covered. Course fees and textbooks are not covered. Check course descriptions and contact CCV for more information.

Are textbooks, course fees or other non-tuition expenses included?

No. The program covers tuition and the $100 CCV administrative fee for eligible students.

I already have a bachelor’s degree. Am I eligible?

No. Refer to Eligibility & Resources above.

Latest from CCV Now

Hear From Our Students

Ready to get started?

Apply today or contact us with any questions.