Go to QCC for Free!

MassEducate and MassReconnect allow Massachusetts residents who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree to attend any of the state’s 15 community colleges and pay no tuition or fees. Both programs include an allowance for books and supplies for certain students.

*Actual allowance amount varies by enrollment.

These programs are available to students who:

• Physically reside in Massachusetts for at least one year, as of the start of the enrolled term*.
• Are either:
  • A U.S. Citizen, permanent legal resident, or non-citizen eligible under Title IV regulations, or
  • An approved “High School Completer” per the Massachusetts tuition equity law
• Have earned a high school diploma or the equivalent**
• Have not yet earned a Bachelor's degree or more than one Associate's degree, or the equivalent
• Are enrolled in at least six credits (usually two classes) per semester in an approved program of study leading to an associate degree or certificate
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress in accordance with the college's requirements.

Eligibility for books and supply allowances may differ between programs.

Students who wish to earn credit for past work experience or life skills can seek Credit for Prior Learning. Email careerservices@qcc.mass.edu for assistance with this process.  Please note that any costs associated with Credit for Prior Learning are not covered under free community college or other financial aid programs.

All students must complete the current FAFSA (or, if you are ineligible to file a FAFSA, the MASFA) to be considered eligible for these programs. For the Fall 2025, Spring 2026 and Summer 2026 semesters, students must complete the 2025-2026 form.  For the Fall 2024, Spring 2025 and Summer 2025 semesters, students must complete the 2024-2025 form.  A new financial aid application must be submitted each academic year for continued funding.

*Please note that if you are required to report parent information on the FAFSA, your parent must also meet the Massachusetts residency requirement.

Complete your enrollment steps and we’ll take it from there! All residents of Massachusetts who meet the above eligibility criteria have access to tuition- and fee-free community college.

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid(FAFSA)

• If you are not eligible to complete the FAFSA and are an approved “High School Completer” under the Massachusetts tuition equity law, please complete the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid(MASFA).

Apply to QCC and enroll in an approved program of study. QCC accepts applications throughout the year and there is never an application fee.

All eligible students will have their tuition and fee costs covered. Students who have already paid some or all of their bill will receive a refund for eligible costs according to college policy and individual student circumstances. Please note that eligibility for prior semester funds may be limited by federal and state application deadlines or awarding guidelines.  Semesters prior to Fall 2024 are not eligible for free community college.

Students are eligible for refunds when their financial aid exceeds their unpaid charges for the semester.  A refund check will be issued after the funds are received from the state and are applied to the student account.