“Free College” Program Taking Shape at Massasoit Community College

Students ages 25+ benefit from MassReconnect

“Taking advantage of MassReconnect has been an amazing opportunity and exactly what I needed at this point in my life,” said Hannah Garey, a health sciences student at Massasoit Community College.

Photo of student smiling in the Sudent Center Dining Commons.

Garey is getting help from MassReconnect, a new state program helping students ages 25 and older earn a college degree or certificate at no cost. Eligible students – who have not earned a college degree, are residents of Massachusetts, and have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – will have their tuition, fees, books, and supplies covered by the state in the form of “last-dollar” payments if they are enrolled as full- or part-time students.

“MassReconnect is an extremely important program, especially for single parents who want to get an education and complete their degree,” said Garey. “I decided it was the right opportunity for me because it eliminated the financial aspects and burden of going back to school.”

Community Takes Notice

This spring, the College has seen a 12% bump in enrollment, with larger increases among older populations: +20% for those in their 30s, +34% for those in their 40s, and +23% for those 50 and older.

“Initiatives such as MassReconnect provide access to educational opportunities and resources that strengthen the community and develop a skilled workforce,” said Massasoit President Ray DiPasquale. “We are excited to welcome back students who want to further their education and careers through MassReconnect.”

Get Started Today!

Eligible students can learn more about the program’s eligibility requirements and start their Massasoit journey by visiting massasoit.edu/MassReconnect, or by contacting Massasoit’s Student Central at studentcentral@massasoit.mass.edu or 508-588-9100. The College is hosting an Open House in Brockton on Saturday, April 6.

Students can apply online at massasoit.edu/apply.

Opportunities Abound at Massasoit

Massasoit students can choose from more than 60 degree and certificate programs across arts, sciences, healthcare, and technology at locations in Brockton, Canton, Middleborough, and online. These diverse options make it easy to start a career or transfer to a four-year school like Bridgewater State, UMass, or Stonehill College – which offers Massasoit transfers a 50% tuition reduction.

Massasoit students are given access to wraparound services provided on campus to support their success inside and outside the classroom.

While typically more than 800 students graduate from Massasoit annually, class sizes are small, and students get the attention and support they need. Learn more at Massasoit.edu.