In Massachusetts, as in some other states, the number of part-time students has grown due to changes in demographic and economic conditions. More adults now find themselves needing to return to the classroom on a less than full-time basis. The continuous increase in college costs is also requiring more students to reconsider their enrollment plans and to look at part-time programs as viable alternatives. The Commonwealth has recognized the above needs and established the Part-Time Grant Program to serve as a bridge between higher education opportunities and those segments of the Massachusetts population.
To be eligible for the Massachusetts Part-Time Grant, applicants must: be a resident of Massachusetts for at least one year prior to the start of the academic year for which the grant is awarded; be a US citizen or permanent resident; have completed FAFSA; be compliant with Selective Service; not be in default of any loans; be enrolled for at least six (or the equivalent) but fewer than 12 undergraduate credits per academic term in an eligible undergraduate degree program or eligible certificate program; have not received a prior bachelor’s degree or professional degree or their equivalent; and, demonstrate financial need. Awards range from $200 to a maximum that depends on the type of institution that the student attends. The number of awards will vary.