Online Schools and Colleges in Vermont

Get started with your search for top-ranked schools in Vermont. Discover which colleges offer programs that fit your needs.
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Updated July 13, 2023

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About 25,000 students are currently enrolled in Vermont's public colleges, and more than 18,000 attend private schools in the state. With more than a dozen schools to choose from, prospective students in Vermont may have trouble deciding which institution meets their needs. Especially designed for students looking for high-quality online programs that provide flexible learning, this page aims to aid aspiring students in their decision by answering their important questions regarding education standards, financial aid, and earning potential in Vermont.

Best Online Colleges in Vermont

4 Year Colleges

  1. Community College of Vermont
    Location

    Montpelier, VT

    Tuition

    $6072

About 25,000 students attended Vermont's public colleges in 2017, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Additionally, NCES data shows that more than 18,500 learners attended Vermont private schools in 2017.

With more than a dozen higher education options in the state, Vermont students should carefully research options to choose the best school for their needs. The state's institutions offer online programs that are ideal for recent high school graduates and busy adult learners. This guide provides information about online schools in colleges in Vermont, accreditation, education standards, financial aid opportunities, and earning potential for graduates.

How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I'm Looking for in Vermont?

Though a small state, Vermont houses many higher education institutions. Because of the number of options, learners may feel overwhelmed as they begin their college search. Students can access lists of Vermont schools through the Open Education Database and the Vermont Agency of Education. You can also click the icon below for details about online schools and colleges in Vermont.Search All Accredited Schools in Vermont

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Top Online Programs

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

How Much More Do College Grads in Vermont Make?

Higher educational attainment tends to lead to higher earning potential. The table below illustrates the correlation between increased education and median annual salaries for U.S. professionals. According to data from PayScale, the median annual salary in Vermont is $56,000, which is higher than the national median.

Vermont is home to sizable manufacturing, agriculture, service, and wine industries, all of which require skilled professionals and managers with advanced education.

Less Than a High School DiplomaHigh School DiplomaAssociate Degree
$28,756$37,960$44,824
Bachelor's DegreeMaster's DegreeDoctoral Degree
$62,296$74,568$94,900

Source: BLS

Paying for Online College in Vermont: Tuition and Financial Aid

The average cost of in-state tuition at public schools in Vermont is nearly double the national average. Rates for out-of-state learners and students at private schools in Vermont are also well above the national averages. However, the state government offers grants and scholarships that can help reduce the financial burden of earning a degree. The tables below compare Vermont's average tuition rates to the national averages.

In-State TuitionOut-of-State TuitionNational Average
$16,103$38,968$9,037 (In-State) $25,657 (Out-of-State)
TuitionOut-of-State TuitionNational Average
$42,637N/A$30,731

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

Cost Considerations for Online Students in Vermont

The figures above do not include room and board or additional costs for out-of-state students. Because tuition rates and fees vary by school, learners should contact their prospective institution to ensure that they understand the total cost of earning a degree. Below are some cost considerations for students attending online schools and colleges in Vermont.

  • Application Fees: Most universities and colleges charge a nonrefundable application fee, which typically costs $25 to $50.
  • Flat-Rate Tuition: Students who take more than 12 credits at a time often pay a flat rate for additional credits. Some schools charge a per-semester fee rather than a per-credit tuition rate.
  • Recurring Technology Costs: Some schools charge a technology fee every semester, and some require students to buy software or hardware. Typically, institutions do not include these costs in tuition charges.
  • Tuition Agreements for Out-of-State Students: Vermont maintains reciprocity agreements with some New England states. These agreements can reduce costs for out-of-state learners who reside in participating states.
  • Required Travel: Some programs require students to travel to campus or other locations for in-person courses. Learners are generally responsible for associated transportation and housing costs.

Qualifying for In-State Tuition in Vermont

To qualify for in-state tuition rates at Vermont public institutions, learners must meet state-established criteria. Students must have a fixed and permanent home in Vermont and must have continuously resided in the state for one year prior to enrollment. Students younger than 18 can assume the residency status of their parent or guardian.

Circumstances may impact residency requirements. For example, students who have received legal emancipation from their parents or who serve in the armed forces typically receive special consideration. Learners should contact their school's financial aid office for details about eligibility requirements.

Paying for College in Vermont: Scholarships and Financial Aid

Learners attending online schools and colleges in Vermont can qualify for public and private scholarships and grants. Some financial aid programs are only available to state residents, while others also support out-of-state students in Vermont. Below are some merit-based and need-based funding options for Vermont learners.

Scholarships for Vermont College Students

NIADA Regional Scholarship

Who Can Apply: The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association Convention awards this scholarship to one student in each of four geographic regions. Applicants must demonstrate a history of leadership, service, and academic achievement.

Amount: $3,500

Apply For Scholarship

Lighthouse Guild Scholarships

Who Can Apply: Legally blind applicants from across the country who demonstrate academic prowess and community involvement can apply for these awards. Recipients can apply the funds toward their graduate or undergraduate education.

Amount: Varies

Apply For Scholarship

Vermont Student Assistance Corporation Scholarships

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be legal residents of Vermont and must meet the eligibility criteria of the specific award. Eligibility requirements vary widely by scholarship.

Amount: Varies

Apply For Scholarship

Stephen Phillips Memorial Scholarship Fund

Who Can Apply: These scholarships support learners who demonstrate financial need, along with leadership qualities such as academic achievement, a commitment to serving others, and a strong work ethic.

Amount: $3,000 to $17,000 annually

Apply For Scholarship

Emily Lester Vermont Opportunity Scholarship

Who Can Apply: Students who have been in the foster care system pursuing an associate or bachelor's degree in Vermont can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

Amount: $1,000 to $2,000

Apply For Scholarship

Grants for Vermont College Students

The TEACH Grant Program

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be pursuing an eligible undergraduate or graduate education program at a participating school. Recipients agree to teach in a high-need field or geographic area after graduation.

Amount: Up to $4,000 per year

Apply For Grant

Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant

Who Can Apply: Students who were younger than 25 years old when their parent died as a result of military service in Iraq or Afghanistan after the events of 9/11 can apply for this award. Applicants must not meet eligibility requirements for a Pell Grant.

Amount: Equal to the maximum Pell Grant amount, without exceeding attendance costs

Apply For Grant

Advancement Grant

Who Can Apply: Applicants must be Vermont residents not enrolled in high school. Students must be enrolled in a non-degree-granting program or course that improves their ability to obtain employment or pursue further their studies.

Amount: Varies

Apply For Grant

Vermont Part-Time Grant

Who Can Apply: This grant supports Vermont residents taking fewer than 12 credits. Applicants must be pursuing an undergraduate degree or certificate approved by the U.S. Department of Education to participate in Title IV aid programs.

Amount: $500 to $9,230

Apply For Grant

Vermont Incentive Grant

Who Can Apply: Vermont residents enrolled full time in an undergraduate certificate or degree program can apply for this grant. The program must be approved by the U.S. Department of Education for Title IV aid programs. With some exceptions, applicants must not hold a bachelor's degree.

Amount: $1,000 to $12,300

Apply For Grant

The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in Vermont

Accreditation refers to a private, voluntary process through which institutions demonstrate credibility and academic authority. Many types of financial aid are only available to students at accredited schools, and many employers and graduate schools only recognize degrees earned from accredited institutions.

U.S. institutions can hold regional or national accreditation, and specific programs may earn subject-specific accreditation. Online schools and colleges in Vermont can hold multiple types of accreditation. The information below can help you identify reputable schools and accrediting agencies.

Regional and National Accreditation

Considered the most prestigious form of accreditation, regional accreditation typically applies to universities and liberal arts colleges. The New England Commission of Higher Education awards regional accreditation to Vermont institutions.

National accreditation often applies to career and vocational schools. Specialized Vermont institutions, including the New England Culinary Institute, generally hold national accreditation from associations such as the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology.

Subject-Specific Accreditation

Learners in some fields, such as engineering and nursing, must attend an accredited program to qualify for licensure. Subject-specific accreditation demonstrates that a program helps learners gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the field. Field-specific accrediting agencies, such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, comprise industry professionals and experts.

How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited

To ensure that you receive a quality education and that your degree holds value after graduation, you should only consider schools that hold proper accreditation. Accredited institutions and programs typically display their accreditation status on their website. Students can also review a list of approved accrediting agencies and accredited schools using the directory from the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Online College and Adult Education in Vermont

Vermont residents can access basic education and industry training programs. Several state initiatives help residents earn their GED credential or high school diploma and qualify for postsecondary programs. The sections below include resources for adult learners in the state.

By the Numbers: Adult Education in Vermont

Of Vermont's higher education students, 10,804 learners (24.6%) enrolled in at least one online course in 2015.

In 2015, 3,493 undergraduate students and 2,341 graduate students in Vermont took exclusively online courses.

Only 39.5% of Vermont's fully online students resided in the state in 2015.

Source: The Distance Education State Almanac 2017

Adult Education Programs for Vermont Students

  • Vermont Adult Career & Technical Education Association: Serving about 3,000 students across the state, this organization helps residents pursue industry credentials in areas such as healthcare, transportation, technology, and manufacturing.
  • Vermont Adult Learning: Individuals 16 or older who live in one of seven service counties can take advantage of learning opportunities in areas -- including English as a second language, GED preparation, high school completion, and work readiness.
  • Central Vermont Adult Basic Education: This organization maintains locations in Washington, Orange, and Lamoille Counties. Residents can access GED preparation classes, English as a second language courses, high school completion opportunities, and career and college readiness training.

Online College Resources for Vermont Students

Prospective students in Vermont can access information about choosing a school, applying to college, and securing financial aid. The following resources can assist learners attending public and private institutions, both on campus and online.

  • Vermont Student Assistance Corporation: This public nonprofit agency helps students and families access information and resources related to financial assistance. Students can learn about savings programs, grants, and scholarships.
  • The Green Mountain Higher Education Consortium: The consortium comprises three Vermont schools: Champlain College, Middlebury College, and Saint Michael's College. Website visitors can learn about collaborative programs.
  • Association of Vermont Independent Colleges: This organization serves its 12 member schools by providing a semester exchange program and international learning opportunities for students. The association also tracks impact data and maintains community partnerships.
  • Vermont Agency of Education: This website provides information about higher education in Vermont, including lists of institutions in the state and out-of-state schools that are certified to educate Vermont learners.
  • Vermont Higher Education Council: This organization connects public, private, and independent colleges in Vermont to improve the overall quality of higher education in the state. The council's website contains data about postsecondary learning in Vermont.

Popular Resources

Whether you’re looking to earn your online degree or you’re a parent looking for answers, you can find all of your questions covered here. Explore these resources to help you make informed decisions and prepare for whatever is thrown your way.

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AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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