Commons and Barn on Sunny Day

Understanding Financial Aid: What Families Need to Know

We help you break all of it down and dispel any misinformation.

The Real Cost of College

When families first see a college’s “sticker price,” it’s natural to feel some sticker shock. But here’s the reality: most students do not pay the published tuition in full. Colleges—including Bennington—use a combination of scholarships, grants, and need-based aid to significantly lower that number. In other words, the price you see is not usually the price you’ll pay.

Bennington’s Commitment to Affordability

Bennington is committed to making a high-quality college education accessible and affordable for everyone who wants to be here. We believe cost should never be a barrier to education, which is why nearly 100% of our students receive some form of financial aid that significantly reduces the published tuition. Through need- and merit-based scholarships, grants, and individualized support, we work with families so that their students can experience the tremendous benefits of a Bennington education. 

Bennington houses on campus


Tips for Applying for Financial Aid

Apply early and meet key deadlines.
The sooner you submit your financial aid materials, the more likely you are to receive your financial aid offer with your admission decision. 

Submit all required forms.
FAFSA (Code: 003682): Required for federal and some institutional aid.
CSS Profile (Code: 3080): Required for institutional need-based aid for first-year and transfer students. 

Ensure accuracy. 
Double-check financial figures and details to avoid delays or adjustments. Common errors are SSN's and birth dates which cause delays in processing.

Ask questions early. 
Bennington’s Financial Aid Office is available to help — don’t hesitate to reach out.

Review the full award offer. 
Aid may include grants, scholarships, loans, and work options. Look at total aid and net cost, not just one category. Parent loan options are optional and not automatically included in the aid offer letter.

The Barn at Bennington

Commons Myths—Debunked

  • Myth: Only top academic performers get scholarships.
    Reality: Need-based aid is driven by your family’s financial picture, as relayed in the FAFSA application—not your grades. Many students with varied credentials receive substantial support.

  • Myth: High-income families don’t qualify at all.
    Reality: Even families with moderate or higher incomes sometimes qualify. Always apply—you might be surprised.

  • Myth: Aid is mostly loans.
    Reality: A large portion is made up of grants and scholarships that do not require repayment.

  • Myth: Applying for aid hurts admission chances.
    Reality: Applying for aid doesn’t disadvantage a student.

Frequently Asked Questions — Tailored for Bennington Families

What forms are required?

Domestic U.S. citizens and permanent residents must submit both the FAFSA (using code 003682) and the CSS Profile (code 3080) See more here. International students need only submit the CSS Profile International Application See more here.

Are fee waivers available for CSS Profile?

Yes—some families may qualify for waivers, especially if income is below certain thresholds. See more here.

What are the key deadlines?

- Early Decision I / Early Action: Admission + CSS due Nov 1; FAFSA due by Jan 15 (ED I) or Jan 20 (EA). 

- Early Decision II: Admission due Jan 10; Financial aid due Jan 20 

- Regular Decision: Admission due Jan 10; Financial aid due Jan 30

When will we hear about aid?

Aid offer letters are typically sent in conjunction with admission decisions: mid-February for ED I & EA, late Feb for ED II, and mid-March for Regular Decision

Does aid need renewal?

Yes—aid is reviewed annually. Continuing students should submit FAFSA by April 15 each year, though priority packaging is by March 1.

Can parents discuss aid details with Bennington?

The Office of Financial Aid is happy to work with parents to review the details - to help expedite the process, please complete the FERPA release so that we protect your data.

In Summary

  • Sticker price does NOT equal what families typically pay. Most students receive enough support to make Bennington much more affordable. At Bennington, merit scholarships range from $7,500 to full tuition!

  • Deadlines matter. Stay on top of Early Decision, Regular Decision, and FAFSA/CSS timelines.

  • Applicants should submit both FAFSA and CSS Profile. International applicants need the CSS Profile only.
     
  • Aid renews annually. Make sure to submit required updates on time each year.
     
  • Stay connected. Use the financial aid portal and FERPA consent to stay informed.

If you have any questions and would like to speak to our financial aid staff 

Email us: finaid@bennington.edu or call us at 802-440-4325.