Massachusetts Scholarships for College

• Home
• scholarships
• by state
• massachusetts scholarships

List of Massachusetts Scholarships for College

Cost of College in Massachusetts

Before diving into the wide array of grants and scholarships available to Massacuhsetts’ students, it is important to understand the cost of attending college in the Commonwealth. Tuition and fees can vary significantly depending on whether you attend a public or private institution.

For example:

• At Massachusetts flagship public university, UMass Amherst, Massachusetts residents will pay $17,772 in tuition and fees for the 2024-25 academic year. Out-of-state students will pay $40,449


• Boston University: BU is the Bay State’’s largest university in terms of enrollment. As a private institution, Boston University charges $68,102 in tuition and fees for the 2024-25 academic year.


• Harvard University: Harvard’s tuition for 2024-25 is $56,550, though many students qualify for need-based financial aid that can significantly lower the tuition and fees students will actually pay.


• Northeastern University: Tuition and fees are $ 65,630.

Many of Massachusetts’ other public universities provide tremendous value for whether you live instate or out-of-state. For example, Wakefield State University has tuition and fees of $12,364 for residents and $18,444 for out-of-state students. Wakefield and other Massachusetts’ public universities including Worcester State University offer students from neighboring states discounted out-of-state tuition.

Fortunately, Massachusetts offers a variety of scholarships, grants, and tuition assistance programs to ease the financial burden of attending college. Below, we’ll explore some of the most popular options available.

State-Funded Scholarships and Grants in Massachusetts

Massachusetts provides numerous state-funded scholarships and grants to help make college more accessible for its residents. Many of these programs are based on financial need, however, others are merit-based or focused on specific demographics.

MASSGrant & MASSGrant Plus

The MASSGrant and MASSGrant Plus programs provide need-based financial aid to help Massachusetts undergraduate students cover the cost of college. These grants are available to residents enrolled in an approved college, university, or post-secondary occupational program  in Massachusetts. MASSGrant Plus offers additional funding to full-time students at Massachusetts public four-year colleges and universities, as well as both full-time and part-time students at public community colleges. Both grants can be used to cover the cost of tuition, fees, and textbooks. Award amounts vary based on a student’s financial need and program a student attends.

MASSGrant Plus Expansion

Under the MASSGrant Plus Expansion program, students who receive federal Pell Grant and the MASSGrant Plus grant are not required  to pay their expected family contribution (EFC), as determined by a student’s FAFSA submission, to attend any Massachusetts public college or university. For those students that qualify, all remaining tuition and fees are waived. Additionally, some students may also  qualify for an allowance of up to $1,200 to help cover the cost of books and supplies. The MASSGrant Plus Expansion does not cover room and board expenses.

John and Abigail Adams Scholarship

The John and Abigail Adams Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to Massachusetts high school students who score highly on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) Test during their sophomore year of high school. Eligible students must score in the top 25% of their district on the MCAS and meet other academic criteria. Recipients may use this scholarship to attend a participating public college or university in Massachusetts. Award amounts vary depending on the school a student attends.

Massachusetts High-Demand Scholarship Program

The Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship Program was established to encourage and support students to pursue degrees in fields of study that align with workforce needs.For the 2024-25 academic year, this scholarship is available to students attending colleges and universities in Massachusetts who are enrolled in programs related to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math), Health Professions, Education, Social Work, Criminal Justice, Economics, or Business. 

To qualify for the Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship, students must be Massachusetts residents and meet minimum grade point average requirements. Award amounts vary based on whether a student is full or part-time and the school a student is attending. The highest award amount for students attending a private college of university in Massachusetts is $17,500 per year. Awards are based on the availability of funding.

Massachusetts Gilbert Matching Student Grant Program

This need-based grant program provides up to $2,500 per academic year to undergraduate students who are pursuing nursing as a field of study at a participating Massachusetts college and university. Eligible students must be Massachusetts residents, demonstrate financial need as determined by the FAFSA, and be enrolled in an approved degree program.

Massachusetts Public Service Grant Program

The Massachusetts Public Service Grant was created to support students who have experienced the loss of a parent or spouse killed or missing in the line of duty while serving the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Unlike other programs, the Public Service Grant is not based on financial need but is instead an entitlement program. 

The Public Service Grant is available to recipients attending an eligible college or university in Massachusetts. For students attending a public college or university, the grant will cover the full cost of tuition. For those attending a Massachusetts independent college or university, the award will be equivalent to full-time tuition charged by University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Scholarships for Adult Learners in Massachusetts

MassReconnect

MassReconnect provides free community college education for Massachusetts residents who are at least 25 years old and who do not already have a college degree. MassReconnect covers the cost of tuition, fees, and other eligible educational expenses. To qualify for MassReconnect, recipients must enroll in a minimum of six credits per semester and maintain satisfactory academic progress. Recipients can pursue associate degrees or certificates at any of Massachusetts’ 15 public community colleges.

Massachusetts Part-Time Grant Program

The Massachusetts Part-Time Grant Program is a need-based grant that provides financial support to undergraduate students enrolled part-time in eligible Massachusetts colleges and universities. To qualify, students must be Massachusetts residents and enrolled in school on a part-time basis (6-11 credits per semester). Grants amounts vary and can be used for tuition and fees. Funding is limited so students are encouraged to apply early. 

 

Scholarships for Massachusetts Residents

Massachusetts students also have access to a number of privately funded scholarships that help make higher education more affordable. These scholarships often target specific student demographics, career goals, or academic achievements. Certain programs are need-based, merit-based, or a combination. 

Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship

The Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship provides financial assistance to Massachusetts high school students who demonstrate extraordinary academic and personal achievements despite challenging life circumstances such as physical or mental abuse, illness, disability, or other adversity. Recipients will receive awards that cover up to 50% of a student’s demonstrated financial need (based on the FAFSA)  and can be used at any accredited institution within Massaucshetts or the United States. To qualify, students must be nominated by a guidance counselor, principal, or teacher, have a grade point average of at least 2.5, be enrolled in a Massachuestts’ high school in their sophomore or junior year, and meet financial eligibility requirements.

Paul Tsongas Scholarship

The Paul Tsongas Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based program that rewards high-achieving students in Massachusetts. To be eligible for this scholarship, students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.75 and have competitive test scores – at least 1200 on the SAT or its equivalent on the ACT.. Recipients of the Paul Tsongas Scholarship receive a waiver of up to all tuition and fees at any Massachusetts state university including Westfield State University, Framingham State University, or the Massachusetts College of Art and Design. 

Private Scholarships for Massachusetts Students

Many private organizations, foundations, houses of worship, and companies offer scholarships for Massachusetts students. These awards often focus on specific fields of study, personal achievements, or financial need.

Boston Foundation Scholarships

The Boston Foundation offers numerous scholarships for students residing in the Greater Boston area. These scholarships offer awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 per year and are based on a combination of financial need, academic achievement, and community involvement. The Foundation offers specialized scholarships for students pursuing careers in areas like public service, business, and education.

Red Pine Scholars Program

The Red Pine Scholars Program is available to high-achieving Massachusetts residents who are attending college for the first time. This scholarship provides mentoring as well as significant financial support, often covering tuition, room and board, and other qualified educational expenses. Award amounts vary but can cover up to $25,000 per year. Recipients must demonstrate financial need, strong academic performance, and a commitment to community service.

Institutional Grants Scholarships in Massachusetts

Massachusetts colleges and universities offer their own institutional grants scholarships to attract top talent and support students who have financial need. Many of these scholarships are based on a combination of merit and financial need. 

Harvard University Scholarships

Harvard offers a robust financial aid program designed to make education affordable for students from all financial backgrounds. Over 55% of students receive need-based Harvard University scholarships, with awards covering the full cost of tuition, room, and board. At least 25% of students at Harvard receive scholarships enabling them to attend without having to pay any tuition! 

Boston University Merit Scholarships

Boston University offers several merit-based scholarships, including the Trustee Scholarship and the Presidential Scholarship. The Trustee Scholarship covers full tuition for up to four years, while the Presidential Scholarship offers $25,000 per year to high-achieving students. These scholarships are highly competitive and awarded based on academic performance, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement.

Institutional Grants

Many colleges and universities in Massachusetts provide institutional grants based on need, merit, or simply to encourage students to enroll at their school. Award amounts vary by institution. 

Federal Grants for Massachusetts Students

In addition to grants and scholarships available from colleges, universities, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and private organizations, Massachusetts students can apply for federal grants by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The most popular federal grant is the Pell Grant, which provides awards of up to $7,395 for the 2024-25 academic year. This grant is need-based and does not need to be repaid. Other federal grants include the need-based Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) and the TEACH Grant, which supports students pursuing careers in education.

Tips for Applying for Massachusetts Scholarships

Securing scholarships and grants takes careful planning and effort. Here are some tips to maximize your chances of receiving financial aid:

• Submit the FAFSA or MASFA early: Many state and institutional grants and scholarships are awarded based on financial need, so submitting your FAFSA as soon as possible is critical. If you are a student from an undocumented family, you will want to complete the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) in order to qualify for programs you may be eligible for. . 


• Stay organized: Keep track of deadlines, eligibility criteria, and required documents for each scholarship. Using a spreadsheet or scholarship tracking app can help you stay on top of your applications.


• Write compelling personal statements: Write personal essays that highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and career aspirations. Make sure to tailor your essay to each scholarship application.


• Secure strong letters of recommendation: Ask teachers, mentors, or community leaders who know you well and can speak to your strengths to write a letter of recommendation.


• Research local scholarships: Don’t overlook smaller, local scholarships offered by community organizations, foundations, or businesses in your area.

By applying for multiple scholarships and grants, you can significantly reduce the cost of your education in Massachusetts. Start early, stay organized, and take advantage of the many resources available to help make college more affordable!