Tuition and Financial Aid
The Virginia Tech Board of Visitors sets tuition annually, generally in the spring. The expected total program cost, including tuition and fees, is $30,000-$31,000 pending Board of Visitors approval. Please note that this figure does not cover the cost of books and is subject to change, so please use this rate as a guide when considering our online professional ag and applied economics degree program.
Several financing options exist for interested students and we are happy to help you navigate some of the options below.
Many businesses contribute to the cost of their employee's graduate education and we are happy to provide your organization with more information about our program. Check with the HR department of your company, agency, or government office to find out your specific benefits.
- Third party payer is available if your employer agrees to pay at time of course registration. Our program support team can help you write a business case justification.
- Reimbursement directly to you after the course is completed is common. Our program support team can provide documentation needed to show course(s), grade(s), etc. per semester.
- Federal guidelines currently exclude up to $5,250 of educational assistance received from your taxable income. Be sure to understand tax implications for any benefit you may receive.
If you are a Virginia Tech employee, you may be eligible for tuition reimbursement per University Policy 4800: Tuition Assistance and Reimbursement Program for Salaried Employees. This assistance allows for up to twelve (12) credits per year and may have tax implications. If you are considering this option to help finance your participation in our program, please consult with our Graduate Program Coordinator, Normand Adams, who can help you through the process of applying for and receiving this benefit.
Graduate students can borrow up to $20,500 each year in Direct Unsubsidized Loans. Direct PLUS Loans can also be used for educational costs not covered by other financial aid. Visit the Federal Student Aid site to find out more about qualifying for federal student aid and complete a Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Note that the FAFSA should be completed annually.
The Office of University Scholarships and Financial Aid at Virginia Tech is also a resource for Virginia Tech students.
A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged investment vehicle designed to encourage saving for the future higher education expenses of a designated beneficiary. This can be a pre-paid or savings vehicle. Please contact your state Department of Education for additional information.
If you’ve served on active duty after September 10, 2001, you may qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33). The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides information about the Post-9/11 GI Bill here. The Office of Veterans Services at Virginia Tech provides support to veteran and military students, and helps coordinate your educational benefits with the Department of Veterans Affairs.