The Massachusetts Tuition Equity Law, effective July 1, 2023, expands access to in-state tuition and state financial aid for students who do not meet traditional residency requirements.

Students who qualify under this law may also be eligible for Massachusetts state financial aid programs, including MassReconnect and MassEducate, which can cover the full cost of tuition and fees at community colleges.

Pathways to In-State Tuition at Massasoit

Massasoit students may qualify for in-state tuition through one of two pathways:

  1. Standard Residency Classification

    This pathway is intended for U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible immigrants who meet Massachusetts residency requirements.

    To qualify under this pathway, a student must:

    • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or eligible immigrant.

    • Have lived in Massachusetts for at least six consecutive months before enrolling (for reasons other than attending school).

    • Demonstrate an intent to remain in Massachusetts by showing that you have established a permanent, primary residence in the state—not just a temporary stay for school. Evidence may include:

      • Holding a Massachusetts driver’s license or state ID.

      • Registering to vote in Massachusetts.

      • Leasing or owning a primary place of residence in Massachusetts.

      • Paying state income taxes as a Massachusetts resident.

      • Working full-time or part-time year-round in the state.

      • Declaring Massachusetts as their state of legal residence on official forms (e.g., FAFSA, tax returns).

    • Submit the Massachusetts In-State Tuition Eligibility Form to be reviewed for this status.

2. High School Completer Classification (Massachusetts Tuition Equity Law)

This pathway is intended for students who graduated from a Massachusetts high school but do not meet the standard residency requirements.

To qualify under this pathway, a student must:

Students who qualify under either pathway but do not submit the required forms will be charged the out-of-state tuition rate.

Applying for State Financial Aid

Students approved for in-state tuition may also qualify for Massachusetts financial aid programs such as MassReconnect and MassEducate, provided they are enrolled in an eligible associate degree or certificate program.

Please note: Being eligible to apply for financial aid does not guarantee that aid will be awarded. Students must still meet the specific requirements of each program.

Additional Resources

The Tuition Equity Factsheet provides detailed information on this law in multiple languages:

To learn more about the Tuition Equity Law, please visit the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education’s webpage and FAQ.