QCC, MWCC to offer free college under $20M MassReconnect program

Photo | Courtesy of Mount Wachusett Community College Mount Wachusett Community College campus in Gardner

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By Timothy Doyle

Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester and Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner are among the 15 schools in line to offer students over age 25 free associate degrees and professional certificates, beginning in the fall.

The $20-million MassReconnect scholarship program was passed as part of the Commonwealth’s fiscal 2024 budget. The program offers scholarships to people over 25 who have a high school diploma or equivalent and have never been to college or not yet completed a degree.

Students must submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid and enroll for six or more credits toward an associates degree or certificate program. The program will support students for four years or until the associates degree is complete, whichever comes first. Applicants must have been a Massachusetts resident for at least one year.

“The MassReconnect program is a giant step forward in our quest for equity in higher education. By offering equitable opportunities and resources for our students, many of whom are juggling one or more jobs and caring for their families, we are bettering our entire community,” QCC President Luis Pedraja said in a Tuesday press release. “Obtaining a higher education is a way for people to advance a career, change careers and make a better life for themselves and their families. MassReconnect is going to be a gamechanger for so many.”