Scholarship Opportunity

MASSGrant

Offered by Massachusetts Department of Higher Education

MASSGrant is a need-based financial aid program funded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for eligible undergraduate students. Awards help Massachusetts residents pursue eligible certificate, associate, or bachelor's degree programs at approved institutions and vary based on financial need and the type of institution attended.

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

Application Timeline

Important application dates

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

2026–2027 Award Year

OpensOctober 1, 2025
DeadlineJune 30, 2026

Eligibility

  • Physically reside in Massachusetts for at least one year as of the start of the enrolled academic year, with an intent to remain in Massachusetts consistent with Board of Higher Education policy.
  • Meet applicable citizenship or Massachusetts state financial aid eligibility requirements.
  • Be enrolled full-time in at least 12 credits or the equivalent.
  • Be enrolled in an eligible certificate, associate, or bachelor's degree program.
  • Attend an eligible institution participating in the MASSGrant program.
  • Not have previously earned a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
  • Demonstrate financial need for tuition and fees after accounting for the Student Aid Index and other scholarship and grant assistance.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress according to institutional and federal standards.
  • Not be in default on applicable federal or state student loans.
  • Not owe a refund for previously received financial aid.

Requirements

  • Complete the FAFSA annually if eligible to file the FAFSA.
  • Students unable or ineligible to file the FAFSA should complete the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) if eligible.
  • Submit the applicable financial aid application by the MASSGrant deadline.
  • Enroll full-time in at least 12 credits or the equivalent.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
  • Complete any financial aid verification requested by the institution or Massachusetts Office of Student Financial Assistance.
  • Reapply for financial aid each academic year to receive continued consideration.

How to Apply

  1. 1Determine whether you should complete the FAFSA or MASFA.
  2. 2Complete the appropriate financial aid application for the academic year.
  3. 3List the colleges or universities you are considering on the applicable financial aid application.
  4. 4Submit the FAFSA or MASFA by the MASSGrant deadline.
  5. 5Respond promptly to any financial aid verification requests.
  6. 6Enroll full-time at an eligible institution.
  7. 7Review your MASSAid account and institutional financial aid award information for MASSGrant eligibility and award details.
  8. 8Complete a new FAFSA or MASFA each year for continued consideration.