By Bob Katzen
The state officially launched MassEducate which allows Massachusetts residents who do not already hold a bachelor’s degree the opportunity to attend any of the state’s 15 public community colleges and pay no tuition or fees.
MassEducate builds on the first successful year of the MassReconnect program which provides free community college to students 25 and older. More than 4,500 students statewide received MassReconnect grant awards in the 2023-24 academic year.
MassEducate expands the law and offers the free tutition to all other residents in addition to those 25 and older. Suporters noted that the Bay State now has one of the most accessible, equitable and comprehensive free community college programs in the country for full-time and part-time students, regardless of income.
To be eligible for free community college, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent; live in Massachusetts for at least one year with an intent to stay in the state; maintain satisfactory academic progress according to the college’s requirements; and not be in default on any federal or state educational loan.
For more information about financial aid opportunities and how to apply for free tutition, go to Mass.Gov/StudentAid
“We knew that MassReconnect would be transformative for thousands of students, for our amazing community colleges and for our economy – and that was only the beginning,” said Gov. Healey. “This universal free community college program will continue to transform opportunities for students and strengthen our workforce. Massachusetts’ community colleges are economic drivers, helping students move ahead in their careers and meeting the needs of our employers.”
“We heard from MassReconnect students that the commonwealth’s investment in them was game-changing and now we are offering that opportunity to our full and part-time students across the commonwealth,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “Massachusetts’ comprehensive free community college program is a true testament to Massachusetts’ commitment to increasing access and affordability in higher education so students can realize their dreams.”
“Universal free community college is transformative,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland). “MassEducate will deliver an education to every resident who wants one, fill workforce shortages faced by our businesses and has already reversed a decade of enrollment decline. Our community colleges are well-positioned to support this program, which will change the life trajectories of many students and their families.”