Massachusetts Launches Free Community College Program for Residents Over 25

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has launched MassReconnect, a program that offers free community college to residents over the age of 25. The program, which received $20 million in funding for its first year, aims to support between 6,500 and 8,000 students in its initial year and up to 10,000 in the second year. To qualify, students must enroll in at least six credits per semester in an approved program of study leading to an associate degree or certificate and complete the Free Application for Student Aid. Governor Healey believes that MassReconnect will transform the lives of thousands of students, strengthen community colleges as economic drivers, and help break cycles of intergenerational poverty.