Massachusetts is set to offer free community college starting this fall after Gov. Maura Healey signed the $57.7 billion state budget this week.
The budget includes $93.5 million for the new MassEducate program, which will cover all tuition and fees for students attending any of the state's 15 community colleges - with a catch. Only those who have never earned a degree are eligible.
The program also provides a $1,200 stipend for books and supplies, based on income.
This move removes the previous age limit of 25, extending tuition-free access to all eligible students. Massachusetts joins over 30 states offering some form of tuition-free community college.
