Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA)
What is the Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) Application?
Students ineligible to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) may be eligible to complete the Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) application. The VASA aims to increase access and opportunity by extending eligibility to state-based aid to those ineligible for federal student aid. Examples of students who are ineligible for the FAFSA, but may qualify for the VASA are:
- Nonimmigrants
- Undocumented
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
To qualify to complete the VASA, students must:
- Be Considered a Virginia Student
- Demonstrate Financial Need and Meet Requirement(s) of State Programs.
To be considered a "Virginia Student," a student must meet one of the following:
- Domicile Requirements,
- Military Dependent, or
- Alternative Pathway for Virginia High School Completers
Please see the website on Domicile Requirements for more information.
Need help determining whether you should apply?
Ready to Apply?
For additional questions concerning the VASA, please contact your financial aid advisor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does VASA use and protect my information?
From the VASA website:
"The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) has oversight over state financial aid programs and administers the Virginia Alternative State Aid Application (VASA application), which may be used by any Virginia student who is otherwise ineligible to submit the federal FAFSA. The Council is committed to providing opportunities and support to ensure every Virginia student is able to pursue education beyond high school.
Regarding concerns that students, parents, and other partners may have about the confidentiality of information submitted on the VASA application, the purpose of the application is to provide necessary eligibility information to colleges and universities in Virginia that award state need-based financial assistance. SCHEV provides VASA application information with institutions selected by the student for the purpose of determining eligibility for state financial aid and complying with state financial aid policies. Campuses are prohibited by law from using the information for any other purposes or to share the data with other parties not involved in the award process.
SCHEV is committed to protecting the confidentiality of the information and privacy of students and families."
Is there an alternative pathway for Virginia high school completers to qualify for in-state tuition?
Students who are unable to establish domicile in Virginia to be eligible for in-state tuition due to citizenship or immigration status (such as undocumented students) might qualify for in-state tuition under the Provision for High School Completers. Students must have been graduated from a Virginia high school or an approved high school equivalency exam) on or after July 1, 2008, and attended a Virginia high school or home school in Virginia for at least two years. Virginia tax returns must be filed for two years prior to the start of the semester of enrollment by parents of dependent students or by independent students. Other details and requirements here.