Virginia Scholarships in 2024

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List of Virginia Scholarships in 2024

In 2023, nearly 530,000 students attended college in Virginia. There are 71 colleges and universities in Virginia including 15 public universities and 25 private colleges and universities. Even if you don’t currently live in Virginia, but plan to attend one of its schools, such as the College of William and Mary, Washington and Lee University, University of Virginia (UVa), James Madison University, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), or George Mason University (GMU), you may also have the chance to add to your college savings fund with these Virginia scholarships. We’ve already done the searching for you; all you need to do is apply! Browse through our list of scholarships for Virginia students to see all the awards available to you.

Understanding Scholarships in Virginia

To understand the importance of scholarships for students attending college in Virginia, it is essential to know what you can expect to pay to goto school in Virginia. In 2023, average in-state tuition for undergraduate students in Virginia was $ 13,554. When including room and board, the average cost of attending a 4 year public school in Virginia was $ 24,838. Average net tuition at Virginia’s private schools varies by institution. By way of example, average net undergraduate tuition at Liberty University is just over $ 27,000 and $ 16,500 at Regent University while average net tuition at Washington and Lee is just over $ 26,000. While many students receive state, federal, and institutional grants that reduce the amount of tuition and fees they will pay, most Virginia students will still have to pay out of pocket to attend school. That’s why private scholarships can play such a crucial role for keeping the cost of college affordable for Virginia students.

Available Scholarships in Virginia

Millions of dollars are available for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing their college dreams in Virginia! Here are some great scholarship programs for that many Virginia students apply for:

Virginia529 Scholarships

Virginia529 or VA529 is a college savings plan administered by the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition to offering students and families the ability to save for college, VA529 also administers scholarship programs including SOAR Scholars, a need-based scholarship that aspiring Virginia college students can apply for as early as the 10th grade! The Scholarship provides awards of up to $ 2,000 as well as awards of up to $ 1,000 to be used for your VA529 account. SOAR Scholars also provides mentorship and advising for its participants.

Early College Scholars Program

If you are in high school, Virginia’s Early College Scholars Program can help you save an average of $ 5,000 on your college expenses and earn your degree faster. This dual-enrollment program is open to all eligible Virginia high school students and will allow you to earn up to 15 units of transferable college credit while still in high school!

Virginia Commonwealth Award for Undergraduate Students

The Virginia Commonwealth Award for undergraduate students provides grants up to the full cost of tuition fees for Virginia students attending a Virginia public college or university. Grants are need-based and the amount of the grant is determined based on need and the school you attend.

Virginia Commonwealth Award for Graduate Students

The Virginia Commonwealth Award for graduate students provides grant assistance for full-time graduate students attending a Virginia public university. Grant requirements and awards are determined by the school you attend.

Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant Program

If you are a Virginia undergraduate and want to attend a private college or university, the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) program can help. The maximum VTAG grant annual award is $ 5,000 at most Virginia private colleges and universities. Students attending Hampton or Virginia Union universities may be eligible for annual VTAG grant awards of up to $ 12,500. VTAG is available to graduate students as well who are studying eligible health-related fields.

Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program

The Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program (VGAP) is designed to help the neediest families and students in being able to afford a college education. VGAP can provide grants of up to the cost of tuition, fees, and even books for eligible students who attend public colleges and universities in Virginia. There are some basic academic requirements, however, eligibility and the amount of your VGAP award will be based on your family’s financial need.

DC Tuition Assistance Grant Program

If you live in neighboring Washington D.C., the DC Tuition Assistance Grant Program (DC TAG) will help pay for the difference between in and out of state tuition for undergraduate students – up tp $ 10,000 per academic year! DC TAG funds can be used to reduce the cost of out-of-state tuition at any of Virginia’s public colleges and universities.

Two-Year College Transfer Grant

If you complete your freshman and sophomore years of college at a Virginia public community college and then transfer to a Virginia public university or eligible private, not-for-profit institution in Virginia, you may be eligible for the Virginia Two-Year College Transfer grant. Eligibility for this grant is based on financial need and award amounts vary.

Federal Grants

Virginia students, particularly those from low-income households, may qualify for federal grants like the Pell Grant. The maximum Pell Grant award for 2024-25 is $ 7,395. These grants are awarded based on financial need and do not require repayment, making them an important resource for funding undergraduate education for many families.

Institutional Grants and Scholarships in Virginia

Most of Virginia’s colleges and universities offer institutional grants and scholarships to attract and support students. These awards may be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both, helping to offset the cost of tuition and other expenses. Institutional awards often go a long way to meet any gaps between federal financial aid you may be eligible for and the actual cost of attendance.

Virginia Private Scholarships

While Virginia has a multitude of state supported grant and scholarship programs, not all students will be eligible. For those who are eligible, these generous programs will not always cover the full cost of your education and often will not cover room and board, books, transportation, and other substantial costs you will face as a college student. The same is true with federal grants and institutional grants and scholarships. This is why private scholarships are so important for students to consider. Virginia students can access thousands of private scholarships. These scholarships vary widely in criteria and eligibility, offering opportunities for students pursuing higher education at any accredited college or university nationwide. You should plan to apply broadly for as many private scholarships you may qualify. Websites like unigo.com provide comprehensive listings and application details for many private scholarships.

Tips for Securing Scholarships and Grants for Virginians

Navigating the scholarship application process can be competitive but following these tips can enhance your chances of success:

1. Start Early: Begin researching and applying for scholarships well ahead of deadlines, as many have early submission requirements. Some grant programs and scholarships, such as Virginia529, provide awards and benefits as early as the 9th grade. So, start your search early, as soon as the 9th or 10th grade.

2. Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, required documents, and application criteria using a spreadsheet or planner.

3. Personalize Your Approach: Tailor your essays and personal statements to highlight your achievements, goals, and how they align with each scholarship’s mission and unique requirements.

4. Recommendations: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or community leaders who can speak to your unique qualifications.

5. Showcase Your Achievements: Emphasize your academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, athletic abilities, unique talents, interests, leadership roles, and community service in your applications.

6. FAFSA Completion: Many scholarships in Virginia require applicants to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is also essential for federal grants and other financial aid programs including grants and scholarships you might receive from your college. You should complete the FAFSA as early as you can in your senior year of high school and/or before you plan to start your degree program.

How About Student Loans in Virginia?

While scholarships and grants are ideal because they do not require repayment, they may not cover all educational expenses. Federal student loans offer favorable terms compared to private loans and can help bridge the financial gap. However, it’s important to consider repayment obligations when taking out any type of student loan. Federal student loan programs do require completion of the FAFSA. By leveraging the many scholarship and grant opportunities available, Virginia students can pursue their educational goals with greater financial ease and support. Whether your goal is to attend a public or private college or university, exploring your options early on can make a significant difference in funding your academic journey ahead!