The Early Childhood Educator’s Scholarship program is funded subject to the availability of funds and appropriation from the Massachusetts Legislature M.G.L. c. 15A, Section 16. The scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance for prospective and currently employed early childhood and out-of-school educators and providers who enroll in a certificate, associates, bachelor's, or master’s degree program in an approved area of study.
Scholarship Details
- Provides funding for certificate, associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree programs in approved fields
- Designed for current early childhood educators and prospective students entering the field
- Applicable to part-time or full-time study at eligible Massachusetts institutions
- Recipients must agree to continue working in early childhood education in Massachusetts or repay the funds
- Funded by the Massachusetts Legislature, subject to annual appropriation
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have resided in Massachusetts for at least one year prior to the enrolled term and intend to remain in the state
- Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or otherwise eligible under Title IV or Massachusetts tuition equity law
- Must complete the FAFSA or equivalent financial aid application
- Cannot be in default on any federal or state student loans or owe financial aid refunds
- Must be enrolled in an approved degree or certificate program at an eligible institution
- Must be employed in a licensed/funded early education and care program or be a prospective student seeking employment in the field
- Prospective students must secure eligible employment within one year of starting the program
- Must sign an agreement to continue working in early childhood education in Massachusetts post-graduation
- Must be pursuing a first bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in an approved program
Application Process
- Confirm eligibility based on residency, employment status, and educational goals
- Complete and submit the FAFSA or equivalent financial aid application
- Apply to and enroll in an eligible Massachusetts institution with an approved early childhood education program
- Provide documentation of employment or intent to seek employment in a qualifying early education and care setting
- Sign an agreement to continue working in the field in Massachusetts or repay scholarship funds
- Submit the scholarship application according to the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education guidelines
The Early Childhood Educators Scholarship Program was funded as a pilot initiative by the Legislature for the purpose of increasing the quality and availability of teachers and care providers to work with young children and youth, in inclusive settings including infant/toddler, preschool and school age programs.
