<p>I just discovered that Vermont has a separate form to apply for a state grant. Since it was easy to fill in after completing the FAFSA and Profile, I just filled it in. But are these state grants just for lower-income families like the Pells? Our FAFSA EFC is around 30K so in that case we certainly won't be eligible. </p>
<p>The existence of special state forms is something that should maybe be included in one of the stickies in this forum. I guess some states don't have their own form and just use the FAFSA. Vermont mostly uses the FAFSA but they added on some Profile questions (value of your home, farm, business; amount contributed to retirement funds pre-tax, etc.). I'm not sure if we would have been contacted to submit that if the FAFSA suggested that our son might be eligible, or if it was up to us to find out about that and apply.</p>
<p>I think most states do have a separate app, but there’s usually a link provided right after you submit the FAFSA. HS packets often include that info as well (if your HS does a FA night or gives college planning info). I don’t have any experience with the VSAC grants, but I understand that funding is limited and not guaranteed and grants are based on financial need. My cousin’s kids did not get any and she is a single working mom of 3…adequate but not huge income and few assets outside of her home - they would have qualified for state aid if she were still in NY which has a defined income eligibility. I wouldn’t count on getting any…but hope to be pleasantly surprised!</p>
<p>Hmm, I didn’t see anything right after I completed the FAFSA. But maybe it already decided based on my EFC that I wouldn’t qualify?</p>
<p>The application process will vary by state. Our small state grant is based on the FAFSA EFC. Ours requires an even lower EFC than the Pell. No separate application needed.</p>