Types of Aid
There are lots of options available to assist with the cost of your Champlain College education; we’re committed to helping you and your family navigate these financial aid decisions.
You’ve Got Options
Because the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will not be available until December 2024, Champlain College is using the CSS Profile Lite application for Fall 2025 applicants. This allows Champlain College to provide our incoming class with a prompt preliminary estimate of Federal Financial Aid.
Applicants will also need to fill out the FAFSA when it becomes available to get an official Federal Aid package.
Admitted students who complete an official Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are automatically considered for need-based awards from Champlain College, the federal government, and their state of residency (when applicable) including scholarships, grants, federal work-study, and loans. The FAFSA is the only financial aid application required by Champlain College to determine your eligibility for need-based aid.
***You MUST complete the FAFSA for EVERY YEAR you wish to be reviewed for need-based financial aid***
All admitted students are also automatically considered for Champlain’s merit scholarships and do not require a separate application.
Types of Aid
Merit-Based Scholarships
Champlain College recognizes students with notable academic achievements by awarding merit-based scholarships. Awarded regardless of financial need, you are automatically considered with your application to the College.
Need-Based Aid
A combination of grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study student employment options comprise the need-based options at Champlain College.
Other Aid
Other types of aid are generally based on a variety of requirements. Learn more about your eligibility on the following pages.
But First, the FAFSA
To be considered for Federal Financial Aid, you must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a form used by most colleges and universities. The information you provide is then used to determine the extent of your financial need and aid eligibility based on institutional and/or federal guidelines. However, the FAFSA will not be available until December 2024.
Therefore, in order to provide our incoming class with a prompt preliminary estimate of Federal Financial Aid prior to the FAFSA release, Champlain College is using the CSS Profile Lite application for Fall 2025 applicants. To ensure we receive your information, use Champlain’s CSS Profile school code: 3291.
Applicants will also need to fill out the FAFSA when it becomes available to get an official Federal Aid package.
Don’t wait until you receive your admission decision before filing for financial aid.
Submit your FAFSA anytime after it is released, even if you have not completed your Champlain admissions application. To ensure we receive your information, use Champlain’s FAFSA school code: 003684.
FAFSA Overview
Check out this video to learn how the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) gives you access to grants, loans, and work-study jobs that can help fund your education.
More Inside Financial Aid
Scholarships
Champlain College offers a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships to help students cover the cost of tuition.
Federal & State Grants
When it comes to covering your educational expenses, grants are great. Typically, they do not need to be paid back, which means they're basically free money!
Educational Loan Programs
There are some fundamental differences between federal loans and loans available from private lenders. Below is a basic overview to help you begin to navigate your loan options.
Federal Work-Study Program
Federal Work-Study Program is an employment program funded by the federal government and Champlain College that allows students to earn money to help with the costs of attending Champlain.