STCC celebrates free community college program for Mass. residents

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College is celebrating a groundbreaking development in higher education: The expansion of free community college in Massachusetts.

The new initiative known as MassEducate, part of the budget signed July 29 by Gov. Maura Healey, aims to make higher education accessible and affordable for Massachusetts residents. STCC, uniquely positioned as the only technical community college in Massachusetts, is thrilled to be part of this transformative change, said STCC President John B. Cook.

Expanding on the success of MassReconnect, which the Healey-Driscoll administration unveiled last year, MassEducate will now offer free community college to all Massachusetts residents, regardless of age, who have yet to earn a bachelor’s degree.  

"MassEducate and MassReconnect align perfectly with our mission to provide accessible, affordable and high-quality education to all,” Cook said. “We are excited to welcome new students and support them in achieving their academic and career goals. Removing the burden of tuition and fees for students will dramatically affect the lives of residents in our region and across the Commonwealth."

MassReconnect, which offers free community college, plus an allowance for books and supplies to students aged 25 and older without an associate or bachelor’s degree, remains funded in the budget. Eligible students will have their full tuition and fees covered, plus students who meet certain income eligibility requirements will receive an additional allowance of up to $1,200 per academic year for books, supplies and other expenses.

Together, MassEducate and MassReconnect provide the opportunity for all Massachusetts residents, regardless of age or income who have yet to earn a bachelor’s degree, the opportunity to earn an associate degree or certificate at any Massachusetts community college, if they meet all eligibility requirements and complete the proper steps to enroll and matriculate.

“We are grateful to the legislature, and in particular the Western Massachusetts delegation, and the Healey-Driscoll administration for this investment in our future,” Cook said. “Free community college for Massachusetts residents reflects a broader commitment to education as a public good, emphasizing that access to education should not be limited by financial constraints.”

MassEducate and MassReconnect align perfectly with our mission to provide accessible, affordable and high-quality education to all. Dr. John B. Cook, STCC President

As the only technical community college in the state, STCC has been a cornerstone of the Springfield community for decades. The college offers a wide range of programs, from technical and vocational training to liberal arts and sciences. Programs include an open-access Health Science degree which provides students, including those from underserved populations, with exposure to health care careers. In addition, some of STCC’s degree programs such as photonics and dental hygiene are not offered anywhere else in the region.

With the introduction of the free community college program, STCC expects to see an increase in enrollment, as more students seize the opportunity to further their education without the burden of tuition and fees.

With the introduction of MassReconnect in 2023, STCC saw increases in the number of students 25 and older. This fall, STCC will continue to welcome back non-traditional adult students who might not have had the means to get a certificate or degree prior to MassReconnect.

Massachusetts residents qualify for MassEducate if they have not previously earned a bachelor’s degree and have resided in Massachusetts for at least one year as of the start of the enrolled term. They also must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), or, if they are an approved high school completer, complete the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA). In addition, they must enroll in at least six credits per semester in an approved program of study leading to an associate degree or certificate.

Prospective students can apply to STCC for the fall semester, which starts Sept. 3. There is no application fee.

Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu

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