Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) — SCHEV

The Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) is for Virginia residents attending participating private colleges. Unlike the Commonwealth Award, it is not based on financial need; it is an annual tuition grant whose amount depends on the approved budget and number of applicants. It is not available at every private university: check the participating-school list and confirm that your program and residency status meet current rules.

Students submit a new application each year directly to the financial-aid office at their college, not as a personal payment request to SCHEV. The 2026–27 form asks about student identity, study level, residency and domicile documents; some categories have alternative eligibility pathways, including a statutory tuition-equity route. Complete every page and signature, and keep a dated copy. The college reviews the file, while SCHEV administers the program using institutional records.

The 2026–27 calendar gave priority to applications submitted by September 15, 2026. The form also identifies a category for new or readmitted students applying from September 15 through October 1 and another for students seeking only a spring award, with a December 1 date. As of October 12, the priority and fall windows have passed; a student newly enrolling for spring should ask the college immediately whether an application can still be submitted by the December date. Do not reuse those dates for 2027–28 until SCHEV publishes its new form.

VTAG does not promise a fixed amount. SCHEV says the authorized figure can change each year and that, if applications exceed funding, the spring amount may be adjusted or some applicants may receive no award. Public student discussions often ask when a college adds state aid to an offer; institutional coordination is central to VTAG as well. If the account shows nothing, first confirm that the college received a complete application and ask when it will communicate a decision before assuming approval.

Before choosing a private college because of VTAG, compare annual net cost rather than only the estimated grant. Ask for tuition, fees, housing and meals, other nonrepayable aid, the confirmed VTAG amount and the balance that would remain if the state reduces the award. If you enrolled for fall and missed a date, ask the college whether an exception applies; do not assume an extension. SCHEV lists (804) 225-2600 for general information, while the college financial-aid office receives the application.