MassEducate Program
What is MassEducate?
MassEducate is a program in Massachusetts that makes community college tuition and fees free for all eligible students. This initiative builds on the success of MassReconnect, which initially provided free community college for students aged 25 and older. Now, MassEducate extends these benefits to students of any age and income level.
Key Features of MassEducate:
- Full Coverage: It covers the full cost of tuition and fees for eligible students enrolled in public community colleges in Massachusetts.
- Additional Allowances: Students may qualify for an allowance of up to $1,200 for books and supplies based on income level. Some may also receive an additional allowance to help with other costs of attending college.
- Eligibility: To qualify, students must have resided in Massachusetts for at least
one year, enroll in an eligible program, and meet other criteria such as satisfactory
academic progress. This program aims to increase access to education, support workforce
development, and promote economic growth in Massachusetts.
To be eligible for the MassEducate program, students must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Must have physically resided in Massachusetts for at least one year before the start of the enrolled term, with an intent to remain in Massachusetts.
- Enrollment: Must be enrolled as a matriculated student on a full-time or part-time basis (minimum of 6 credits per term) in an eligible undergraduate program of study leading to a certificate or associate degree at a Massachusetts community college.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, or non-citizen eligible under Title IV regulations, or have an approved eligibility status under the Massachusetts Tuition Equity Law.
- Financial Aid Application: Must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) annually.
- Financial Aid Compliance: Must comply with financial aid verification requirements and not be in default on any federal or state student loans or owe a refund for any previous state financial aid program.
- Educational Background: Must not have earned a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent. However, students who have previously earned an associate degree may receive financial assistance to complete up to one additional associate degree.
- Academic Progress: Must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) according to the institution’s requirements and federal standards.