Scholarship Opportunity

DCF Adopted Child Tuition Waiver and Fee Assistance Program

Offered by Massachusetts Department of Higher Education

The DCF Adopted Child Tuition Waiver and Fee Assistance Program provides tuition and fee assistance to eligible children and young adults who were adopted through the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families. Qualifying students may receive a waiver covering 100% of tuition and eligible fees for state-supported coursework at Massachusetts public colleges and universities, subject to state appropriation.

EssayNot required
RenewableYes
Grade LevelHigh School Senior, College Freshman, College Sophomore, College Junior, College Senior, Adult Learner

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

2026–2027 Award Year

OpensTo Be Announced
DeadlineTo Be Announced

Eligibility

  • Have been adopted through the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.
  • Have been adopted by an eligible Massachusetts resident or state employee.
  • Be age 24 or younger.
  • Meet applicable Massachusetts residency and state financial aid eligibility requirements.
  • Complete the FAFSA or Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA), as applicable.
  • Attend an eligible Massachusetts public college or university.
  • Be enrolled in eligible state-supported undergraduate coursework.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
  • Not have previously earned a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
  • Not be in default on applicable federal or state student loans or owe a refund for previously received financial aid.

Requirements

  • Complete the FAFSA or MASFA, as applicable.
  • Obtain the required DCF Adopted Child Tuition Waiver eligibility certificate or documentation.
  • Provide documentation verifying qualifying DCF adoption status.
  • Provide any supporting documents requested by DCF, the institution, or the Massachusetts Office of Student Financial Assistance.
  • Enroll in eligible state-supported coursework at a Massachusetts public college or university.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
  • Continue meeting applicable age, residency, and state financial aid requirements.

How to Apply

  1. 1Complete the FAFSA or MASFA for the applicable academic year.
  2. 2Request the DCF Adopted Child Tuition Waiver certificate or eligibility documentation through the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.
  3. 3Provide the required adoption and eligibility information requested by DCF.
  4. 4Submit the waiver documentation to the appropriate financial aid or student services office at your Massachusetts public institution.
  5. 5Enroll in eligible state-supported coursework.
  6. 6Complete any additional financial aid verification requested by the institution.
  7. 7Review your student account to confirm that the tuition waiver and eligible fee assistance have been applied.