Bristol Community College is proud to announce that Governor Maura Healey today signed into law the state budget for Fiscal Year 2025, paving the way for free community college for everyone in Massachusetts through a new initiative, MassEducate.
MassEducate builds upon the success of MassReconnect, which provides free community college for those 25 and older without a prior degree.
MassEducate and MassReconnect allow eligible Massachusetts residents of all ages 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.
Following the implementation of MassReconnect in August 2023, the college’s overall enrollment from the Spring 2023 to Spring 2024 semesters increased by 7.4%, including a 16.3 % rise in Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) students and an almost 31% increase in the number of adult learners.
Read the announcement, below, sent by Bristol Community College President Laura L. Douglas to the college community today.
A Message from President Laura L. Douglas, Ph.D.
Today marks a momentous occasion as Governor Maura Healey signed into law the state budget for Fiscal Year 2025, paving the way for free community college for everyone!
The new MassEducate program expands upon the success of MassReconnect by offering free community college to individuals of all ages. This means that now, more than ever, higher education is within reach.
Together, MassEducate and MassReconnect allow eligible 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.
MassReconnect has demonstrated students' eagerness to pursue their educational goals. Free community college benefits all in the community, not just those obtaining a degree. Supporting a higher level of educational attainment and less debt is a long-term investment in the region’s workforce, contributing to a stronger economy, greater equity and healthier communities.
It is important that anyone who is interested in taking advantage of MassEducate and MassReconnect complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible to maximize eligible grant funds. Whether they are a new or current student, we encourage them to apply to the college and complete their FAFSA promptly, especially if they plan to start this fall.
For the latest updates, please visit www.BristolCC.edu/freecollege.
With the introduction of free community college through MassEducate, even more students have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on our community. Your continued support and dedication serve as a testament to the value of education.
Thank you once again to Governor Healey and our legislators for their visionary leadership and dedication to the value of education. During this historic moment, it is reassuring to know that our efforts today will resonate through generations to come.
Sincerely,
Laura L. Douglas, Ph.D.