More Vermonters than ever now qualify for free tuition at the Community College of Vermont (CCV), thanks to a major expansion of the 802Opportunity program. The initiative, led by the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) in partnership with CCV, now offers full tuition coverage to Vermonters with household incomes of up to $100,000—doubling the previous threshold of $50,000.
Launched five years ago, 802Opportunity is designed to remove financial barriers to higher education and provide a pathway to a debt-free associate degree. According to the Vermont Department of Taxes, this latest expansion means up to 70% of Vermont households now qualify.
“802Opportunity has been enormously impactful because it has enabled me to further my professional goals in a way that I would not have been able to do without it,” said CCV student John LaLonde. “This program has helped me overcome the biggest obstacle to finishing my education: financial insecurity. It has also rekindled my love of learning.”
Since last fall, nearly 2,800 CCV students have benefited from the program. Eligible students—whether new or returning—can choose from 38 certificate and degree programs, including 32 that can be completed entirely online.
CCV President Joyce Judy emphasized the broader impact of the initiative: “802Opportunity opens the door for more Vermonters to pursue a debt-free associate degree. Vermont businesses and communities need an educated workforce, and this program ensures that all Vermonters can invest in themselves.”
VSAC President and CEO Scott Giles called the expansion a “nationally recognized breakthrough” in higher education. “802Opportunity removes financial barriers so students can obtain the education they need to pursue Vermont’s high-demand, high-wage jobs,” Giles said. “We are thankful that Vermont’s leaders have expanded 802Opportunity to empower more students to take the next step toward a brighter future.”
The program is part of the state’s broader efforts to boost workforce readiness and economic mobility. CCV, Vermont’s second-largest college, serves nearly 10,000 students annually across 12 campuses and through extensive online offerings.
The fall semester begins Tuesday, Sept. 2.
For more information, visit: ccv.edu/802 or vsac.org/802Opportunity.
