MCC Hosts Tuition Equity Sessions to Help Students Understand New Law

This summer, Middlesex Community College is helping current and prospective students and their families understand Tuition Equity. Virtual information sessions will go over the new Massachusetts state law, including what tuition equity is and how qualifying students can take advantage.

“As Tuition Equity is new in Massachusetts, we understand students may feel overwhelmed or not know how the program can help them, but there are many advantages,” said Jeffrey Tejada, MCC’s Director of International Admissions & Compliance. “Paying in-state tuition and fees can save students over $200 per credit, while also helping them prioritize going to school and getting on track to reach their goals faster.”

Tuition Equity allows qualifying non-U.S. citizens – including undocumented students – to be eligible for in-state tuition and qualify for state financial aid programs in Massachusetts. During the events, Tejada will explain the process and benefits, as well as walk through each step a student needs to complete to see if they qualify.

MCC’s virtual sessions will run online from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, including July 16, July 30, August 13 and August 27.

Students may qualify for Tuition Equity if they are a non-U.S. citizen, including undocumented; attended high school in Mass. for three or more years; earned a Mass. high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED or HiSET; and are admitted to a Mass. college or university.

To see if they are eligible for Tuition Equity at Middlesex, new or returning students can apply to the college and complete the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA). Students will then complete the Tuition Equity Eligibility Form. Current students can also fill out the MASFA and eligibility form.

Qualifying students will be refunded for the amount that exceeded in-state tuition for classes that began on or after July 1, 2023.

At MCC, students can choose from over 80 associate degree and certificate programs. Flexible course options include on-campus, online, hybrid, hyflex and accelerated classes, as well as free and award-winning student support services, such as tutoring and advising.

Middlesex will offer a final five-week summer session starting on Monday, July 8, as well as the Fall 2024 semester beginning on Tuesday. September 3. Students can choose from the traditional 15-week semester and two accelerated, eight-week Mini-mesters – the second session starting on Monday, October 28.

“With the upcoming semesters approaching, now is the best time to learn about Tuition Equity and see if you are eligible,” Tejada said. “I’m here to help you every step of the way!”

Visit https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/admissions/paying/tuitionequ.aspx for more information and to register.