University of Vermont Raises Free-Tuition Income Cap to $125,000, Starting Fall 2027

On August 26, 2026, the University of Vermont announced that it is expanding UVM Promise, its zero-tuition program for Vermont students. Starting in fall 2027, all admitted students from households with a combined annual income of up to $125,000 will attend the university tuition-free. Vice President for Enrollment Management Jay Jacobs said raising the threshold to $125,000 means the majority of Vermont families can now send their student to the state's flagship university with tuition and fees fully covered. UVM President Marlene Tromp announced the expansion during her State of the University address. Eligibility for the program is checked every year, based on the family's income as reported on the FAFSA.

The announcement does not say whether students from outside Vermont can qualify for any version of this program, or how UVM defines "household" for families with separated or divorced parents. It does not list an application deadline, a separate form beyond the FAFSA, or whether current UVM students (not just those admitted starting fall 2027) will also be covered under the new $125,000 cap. We also don't see whether the tuition-free benefit extends to room, board, books, or other living costs, or covers tuition and fees only. The university page does not say how a family would appeal or update its eligibility if income changes during the year.

If you are applying to UVM as a Vermont resident, ask your family to file the FAFSA as soon as it opens, since that form is how the university checks eligibility for this program. If you are not sure whether your family's income will qualify, apply anyway and let the financial aid office review your file once you are admitted. Talk with your school counselor about the timeline for your graduating class, and check UVM's own admissions and financial aid pages directly, since those will have the most current application steps and any forms beyond the FAFSA. If your family's financial picture changes before you enroll, plan to update the FAFSA so the university has your most recent numbers.