VSAC’s benefit helps fund health studies in exchange for service in rural Vermont communities. Eligible fields include nursing, dental hygiene, radiologic technology, respiratory or occupational therapy, mental health, social work, psychology, degree-level paramedicine, and graduate dentistry. The list is specific; other health fields may not qualify even when demand is high.
VSAC reports that 2026–27 funds are exhausted and that the 2027–28 application opened October 1, 2026. Eligibility includes at least half-time enrollment, a minimum 2.50 GPA, and a lifetime maximum equivalent to four years. Awards depend on funding and the file; full coverage or a uniform amount is not guaranteed. The official page recommends applying early while funds remain.
The agreement requires five years of work as a health professional at an eligible rural-serving facility after graduation and licensure when required. VSAC defines eligible counties and exceptions in its application; any Vermont job is not enough. Failure may require repayment. Before choosing a school, confirm accreditation, field, and service terms with VSAC and request the 2027–28 calendar in writing.
Request an individual review and net-cost statement before enrolling. Confirm residency, program, credits, funding, deadline, renewal, and excluded charges in writing; keep receipts and monitor the campus portal. The financial-aid office makes the final determination and can explain how this aid combines with FAFSA and other grants.
Read the program profile and FAFSA guide; ask for a personal review of your balance.
Rural Health Tuition Benefit — Vermont Student Assistance Corporation.
VSAC scholarship applications — Vermont Student Assistance Corporation.
Checked October 13, 2026 against official sources. Amounts, availability, eligibility, and dates change by year and institution. Some 2026–27 dates have passed or funds are exhausted; each guide states the verified status. Confirm eligibility and net cost in writing with financial aid. Tuition assistance does not necessarily cover housing, meals, transportation, books, or equipment.
Compare net cost and excluded charges before committing; financial aid confirms eligibility and your balance.
Options to compare
These options relate to the question. Read each profile and check current details before deciding.
Rural Health Transformation Tuition Benefit Program
VSAC’s benefit helps fund health studies in exchange for service in rural Vermont communities. Eligible fields include nursing, dental hygiene, radiologic technology, respiratory or occupational therapy, mental health, social work, psychology, degree-level paramedicine, and graduate dentistry. The list is specific; other health fields may not qualify even when demand is high. VSAC reports that 2026–27 funds are exhausted and that the 2027–28 application opened October 1, 2026
College financial-aid program
Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education
The agency sets rates, eligibility, and caps; the college certifies need, cost, and the individual amount within those limits.
Public student-aid administering office
Sources & references
Sources for the information and reporting discussed in this guide.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
Vermont Student Assistance Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
Vermont Student Assistance Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official application and program information ↗
Primary source
Vermont Student Assistance Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Rural Health Transformation Tuition Benefit Program ↗
Primary source
Vermont Student Assistance Corporation · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗
Primary source
Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗
Primary source
Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.