Scholarship Opportunity

Paul Tsongas Scholarship

Offered by Massachusetts Department of Higher Education

The Paul Tsongas Scholarship is a merit-based Massachusetts tuition and mandatory fee waiver for high-achieving students attending one of the Commonwealth's eight state universities. The program rewards students with exceptional academic performance and highly competitive standardized test scores.

Minimum GPA3.8+
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

OpensTo Be Announced
DeadlineTo Be Announced

Eligibility

  • Physically reside in Massachusetts for at least one year as of the start of the enrolled term, with an intent to remain in Massachusetts consistent with Board of Higher Education policy.
  • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent legal resident, eligible non-citizen under Title IV regulations, or have approved Massachusetts High School Completer eligibility under the state's tuition equity law.
  • Complete the FAFSA or an equivalent financial aid application authorized by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education.
  • Have a high school GPA of at least 3.75.
  • Earn an SAT score of at least 1200 or the ACT equivalent.
  • Meet any additional eligibility criteria established by the participating Massachusetts state university.
  • Attend one of the eight eligible Massachusetts state universities.
  • Not be in default on applicable federal or state student loans.
  • Not owe a refund for previously received financial aid.

Requirements

  • Complete the FAFSA or Massachusetts-authorized equivalent financial aid application.
  • Apply for admission to an eligible Massachusetts state university.
  • Meet the 3.75 GPA requirement.
  • Meet the SAT 1200 or ACT-equivalent requirement.
  • Complete any institution-specific Paul Tsongas Scholarship application or selection process.
  • Maintain at least a 3.3 cumulative college GPA for continued eligibility.
  • Continue meeting all applicable institutional and state eligibility requirements.

How to Apply

  1. 1Apply to one or more eligible Massachusetts state universities.
  2. 2Complete the FAFSA or applicable Massachusetts-authorized financial aid application.
  3. 3Contact the state university you plan to attend for its Paul Tsongas Scholarship application requirements and deadline.
  4. 4Submit any academic records or standardized test scores required by the institution.
  5. 5Complete any additional campus-specific scholarship application process.
  6. 6If awarded, maintain at least a 3.3 cumulative GPA for continued eligibility.