Massachusetts residents access free community college tuition

Massachusetts residents can attend community college without paying tuition or fees. This initiative provides a lower cost path to higher education and has led to rising enrollment across all 15 community colleges in the state.

The state Department of Higher Education reported that community college enrollment grew by 43.5 percent since fall 2022. By fall 2026, the estimated headcount reached 89,464. State leaders, including Governor Maura Healey and Senate President Karen Spilka, attributed this growth to the tuition free program.

At MassBay Community College in Framingham, enrollment grew 59 percent since the program launched, reaching a record 5,555 students in fall 2026. Students can also receive assistance for books and supplies to further reduce their education costs. To qualify, residents must apply for aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid. Eligible students must enroll in at least six credits each semester in an approved program.

The state removed age restrictions in 2024, which previously limited the program to residents 25 or older. While enrollment is increasing, the Department of Higher Education noted that completion rates for Black and Hispanic or Latino students remain below the overall six year community college rate of 34.4 percent. Additionally, the current on time credit completion rate for all community college students stands at 40.3 percent.