Massachusetts Tuition Reciprocity Agreement: An Overview
For students in Massachusetts looking to attend college, the cost of tuition can be a major concern. Fortunately, there is a tuition reciprocity agreement in place that can help alleviate some of the financial burden.
The Massachusetts Tuition Reciprocity Agreement allows eligible students from certain states to attend participating colleges in Massachusetts at a reduced tuition rate. This agreement is part of the New England Board of Higher Education’s (NEBHE) Regional Student Program (RSP), which aims to provide affordable higher education options for students in the region.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Massachusetts Tuition Reciprocity Agreement, students must be residents of one of the following states: Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Vermont. Students must also be enrolled in an undergraduate program at a participating college or university in Massachusetts.
Participating Colleges and Universities
There are currently 82 participating colleges and universities in Massachusetts. These institutions range from small liberal arts colleges to large research universities. Some of the more well-known universities include Boston University, Northeastern University, and Tufts University.
Benefits
The main benefit of the Massachusetts Tuition Reciprocity Agreement is the reduced tuition rate. Eligible students pay a lower tuition rate than the standard out-of-state rate. This can result in significant savings for students and their families.
For example, the out-of-state tuition rate for Boston University for the 2020-2021 academic year is $58,864. However, students from participating states who are eligible for the Massachusetts Tuition Reciprocity Agreement pay a reduced rate of $45,686. This represents a savings of over $13,000 per year.
Additionally, the Massachusetts Tuition Reciprocity Agreement helps to expand educational opportunities for students in the region. By allowing students to attend colleges and universities outside of their home state at a reduced cost, the agreement encourages students to consider a wider range of institutions when making their college decisions.
Application Process
To apply for the Massachusetts Tuition Reciprocity Agreement, students should contact the financial aid office at their college or university. Students will be required to provide proof of residency and meet any other eligibility requirements set by their institution.
Conclusion
The Massachusetts Tuition Reciprocity Agreement is a valuable resource for students in the region. By providing a reduced tuition rate for eligible students, the agreement helps to make higher education more affordable and accessible. Students who are considering attending college in Massachusetts should check with their institution’s financial aid office to see if they are eligible for this program.