College to offer no-cost program for some students

Virginia families earning $40,000 or less may send their children to the University of Virginia’s College at Wise at no cost for tuition or fees under a new program called UVa-Wise Within Reach, starting in the fall of 2020.

The program is only available to full-time, degree seeking students from Virginia who are eligible to receive in-state tuition.

College officials unveiled the new program Wednesday.

“The program lets us help Virginia families realize the dream of a college degree is within reach,” Chancellor Donna P. Henry said in a press release. “We know families often face a steep financial burden when the time comes to send their children to college. We hope the program will alleviate some of the worry and financial stress families feel during what is normally a pivotal and exciting time for students and parents.”

UVa-Wise serves many first generation college students, and more than 80 percent of its students receive federal and state financial aid. Generous benefactors have created numerous private scholarships as well. UVa-Wise will rethink the way it combines state and federal financial aid with the private scholarships to make the Within Reach program work.

UVa-Wise Within Reach begins with Virginia students completing their FAFSA forms by Feb. 15 and being admitted to the college by the same date. Students who qualify for additional institutional grants or scholarships will have those funds added to the financial aid award up to, but not exceeding, the cost of attendance. Students must qualify for the program each of the four years of enrollment and must meet minimum academic requirements.

College officials will start immediately sending details of the program to prospective students, parents, guidance counselors and others who are interested in the program.
For more information, please contact the Office of Admissions at 276/328-0102 or email Chris Dearth at admissions@uvawise.edu.