VT H0297

Creates the Free Degree Promise Grant Program to provide free associate's degrees through the Community College of Vermont (CCV) for eligible students who have completed the Early College program with at least 20 credits

Eligibility requires full-time enrollment (minimum 12 credits), completion of FAFSA, no prior associate's degree, no student loan defaults, and satisfactory academic progress

Grants cover remaining tuition and fees after federal and state aid, plus a per-semester stipend of $1,000 for students below 400% of federal poverty level or $500 for those at or above that threshold

Students may receive grants for up to five semesters of full-time study or until degree completion, whichever comes first

CCV must submit annual reports by January 15 on enrollment, spending, and completion rates disaggregated by priority equity populations, with up to 12% of appropriated funds available for administration and student support services