Tuition and Fees at UMass Lowell Are Covered for Massachusetts Residents with Family Incomes up to $75,000/year

Eligible MASSGrant Plus program qualifying students with family incomes under $75,000 will have tuition and mandatory fees covered through a combination of federal, state and institutional aid. UMass Lowell is able to continue offering this assistance to students in Fall 2025, thanks to continued support for the program from the state.

Apply for the MASSGrant Plus Program

Candidates can apply for the MASSGrant Plus program by completing a UMass Lowell application and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA).

A trio of students walks along a North Campus sidewalk
“The impact of a college degree can be felt by families for generations,” said UMass Lowell Chancellor Julie Chen. “Thank you to our state legislators and the Healey-Driscoll administration for funding MASSGrant Plus and for their investment in the futures of students at UMass Lowell."

MASSGrant Plus Program FAQ

What is the UMass Lowell MASSGrant Plus partnership?

The UMass Lowell MASSGrant Plus partnership provides full tuition and mandatory fee coverage* for eligible in-state students starting in Fall 2025. This initiative is part of UMass Lowell’s dedication to accessible education for students with high financial need, combining federal, state, institutional and outside aid to cover the cost of tuition and fees.

This program is available thanks to the Massachusetts Legislature and the Healy Driscoll Administration, and is contingent on continued MASSGrant Plus funding.

Who qualifies for the UMass Lowell MASSGrant Plus partnership?

To be eligible, students must:

  • Qualify as Massachusetts residents eligible for Massachusetts state aid;
  • Be enrolled full-time (12+ credits) in an undergraduate degree-seeking program.
  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA), as applicable for eligible students under the Massachusetts Tuition Equity Law, annually by May 1, and meet all other criteria;
  • Have a Family Income of $75,000 or less and have demonstrated high financial need*, which is defined as being eligible for Federal Pell Grant and/or MASSGrant;
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress; and
  • Not have earned a prior bachelor’s degree (or the equivalent).

See full eligibility requirements at the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education MASSGrant Plus website.

*Total grant aid cannot exceed a student’s demonstrated financial need.

How to apply for the MASSGrant Plus program at UMass Lowell?

Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) as applicable for eligible students under the Massachusetts Tuition Equity Law, annually by May 1, and meet all other criteria.

Do students need to submit FAFSA/MASFA each year?

Yes. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) as applicable for eligible students under the Massachusetts Tuition Equity Law, annually by May 1, and meet all other criteria.

How is Massachusetts residency determined?

For dependent students, both student and parent physically reside in Massachusetts for at least one year, as of the start of the academic year, with the intent to remain in Massachusetts. For independent students, student physically resides in Massachusetts for at least one year, as of the start of the academic year, with the intent to remain in Massachusetts. More information may be found on the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education website.

How is Family Income determined?

Income is taken from the data reported on the Free Application for Student Financial Assistance (FAFSA). The FAFSA uses prior-prior year income, therefore, the 2025-26 FAFSA will collect 2023 income information.

What expenses does UMass Lowell MASSGrant Plus cover?

The program covers in-state tuition and mandatory fees with federal, state, institutional and any private scholarships. It does not include housing, food or specific program fees. Total grant aid cannot exceed a student’s demonstrated financial need. Students must meet eligibility requirements each semester to qualify.

Are study abroad or off-campus credits covered?

No. Study abroad or approved credits at other institutions don’t qualify, but students may be eligible for merit scholarships and/or other need-based financial aid.

Is UMass Lowell MASSGrant Plus awarded for four years automatically?

No. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA), as applicable for eligible students under the Massachusetts Tuition Equity Law, annually by May 1, and meet all other criteria to be considered. Student eligibility is reviewed and determined each semester. Eligible students may receive funding for up to four years.

Are current students eligible?

Yes, current UMass Lowell students who meet the eligibility criteria will qualify for the UMass Lowell MASSGrant Plus partnership.

What if you don’t qualify or if finances change?

Students who do not qualify for the program may still qualify for merit scholarships and/or other need-based financial aid.

Who do I contact with questions?

New students may reach out to UMass Lowell Admissions at admissions@uml.edu. Current students may contact The Solution Center at TheSolutionCenter@uml.edu.