We hope these FAQs will answer your questions:
Who is eligible to attend?
Any high school student or 8th grader who will be a freshman in the fall who is interested in leadership and wellness may apply.
You do not have to be a Vermont resident.
How do I apply?
We only accept online applications. You can submit your application from the drop-down menu on the Apply bar.
When is my application due?
Our regular admission deadline is April 15. After that date, we accept applications on a rolling admission basis. Our program can fill up fast and we high recommend early application as space is competitive and limited. Due to the occasional last minute cancellation, we may have openings in our program near the start date.
Is there financial aid or scholarships?
We encourage you to apply for independent scholarships as well as to fundraise. We do have a limited amount of financial aid scholarships. We work to help every student, regardless of means, attend our program. Apply as early as possible for financial aid. Please email or call with any questions.
When will I find out if I have been accepted?
We will first send you an email confirming we have received your application. You will be notified within two weeks of your acceptance.
If we are already full, you may be placed on our waiting list.
What is the summer program facility like?
VIHW runs our program at the Common Ground Center in Starksboro, Vermont, which is 30 minutes from Burlington and Lake Champlain. Our site is located on over 700 acres to explore and play.
Careful consideration has been taken to minimize the human impact on the land. We are committed to energy conservation, recycling, composting, and to using environmentally friendly products and materials.
Our site includes a two-acre swimming pond with raft, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, ping-pong table, two tennis courts and plenty of outdoor recreational fields and hiking trails.
How do I get to and from the Vermont Institute on Health and Wellness?
Many students are dropped off and picked up by their parents. We have a closing ceremony on Friday July 6th from 10:30am - 12:00 noon and encourage families to attend. If you will be flying (Burlington International Airport is 20 minutes away) or taking a train or bus, we are happy to arrange pickup for a nominal fee.
What should I bring?
A list of things to bring will be provided in your acceptance letter.
How can I donate to VIHW?
VIHW is a Vermont state non-profit organization. Please see our Give link on our homepage.