Press Release  Governor Healey Sets Goal of Enrolling 100,000 Early College Students by 2036

Boston — In her third State of the Commonwealth address, Governor Maura Healey set new goals of enrolling 100,000 students in Early College in 10 years. Since Governor Healey took office, she has been expanding Early College, career technical education programs, Innovation Career Pathways and subsidizing the cost of Advanced Placement (AP) tests so that more students can get started on their college degrees while still in high school – for free. Right now, 10,000 students across the state are enrolled in Early College programs. Governor Healey will propose $15 million for the Early College program in her FY27 budget, an increase of more than $600,000 from FY26, to continue making progress toward this new goal.

“Early College and dual enrollment are incredible opportunities for our kids,” said Governor Healey. “Here’s what I’m talking about. You’re in high school, and you take college courses that give you college credit. I have been to community college graduations where some students are getting their high school diploma and associates degree at the same time. That’s fantastic, and it’s an opportunity I want for as many young people as possible. Tonight, I am setting another target. I want 100,000 students in Early College within 10 years. We’re going to help our kids reach their goals and save them money.” 

Since taking office, Governor Healey has been expanding Early College and Career Innovation Pathways so that more students can get started on their college degrees while still in high school – for free. Under this administration, Massachusetts has also subsidized 90,783 AP exams for nearly 50,000 low-income students. Right now, 10,000 students across the state are enrolled in Early College programs. 

Early college is one part of Governor Healey's commitment to preparing the next generation to be a part of Massachusetts’ economic success story. Last year, for the first time in eight years, Massachusetts students ranked #1 on the Nation’s Report Card.

Two years ago, Governor Healey set a goal of having universal Pre-K access in all Gateway Cities by 2026. This year, she’ll achieve that goal, bringing affordable Pre-K funding to more cities and towns than ever before. Her high-dosage tutoring program will also serve 350 schools, accelerating literacy for thousands of young children. And her administration will continue to work on implementing the best statewide high school graduation standard in the country. 

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