Discrimination in Education

Learn about what conduct is considered discrimination involving educational institutions.

Educational institutions cannot discriminate against applicants based on an applicant's membership in a protected class.

The MCAD enforces Title XXI, Chapter 151C.

It is illegal discrimination if you were denied admission to a school, university, or other educational institution in Massachusetts based on your race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, criminal record, or disability including blindness or deafness. 

One must meet the educational qualifications for the program and refusal of admission must be based on discrimination related to membership in a protected class.

The law covers admission to a program or course of study that leads to a degree. This may include religious or denominational institutions, vocational training institutions, and any institution for instruction or training.

In some cases, the MCAD has jurisdiction over harassment at school. 

Filing

Filings of complaints of discrimination in education must be placed within 180 days since the last discriminatory act.

Contact   for Discrimination in Education

Fax

MCAD Boston (617) 994-6024
MCAD Springfield (413) 784-1056
MCAD Worcester (508) 755-3861

Address

MCAD Boston
1 Ashburton Place, Suite 601, Boston, MA 02108
MCAD Springfield
436 Dwight Street, Room 220, Springfield, MA 01103
MCAD Worcester
18 Chestnut Street, Room 520, Worcester, MA 01608

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