Press Release  Healey-Driscoll Administration Launches Higher Education Financial Aid Road Show

Boston — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today it is holding a Higher Education Financial Aid Road Show at high schools across Massachusetts to encourage students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and apply for the nearly $400 million available in state financial aid.  

Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler, Higher Education Commissioner Noe Ortega and other state and local education leaders will meet with students at eight Massachusetts high schools throughout February and March to promote the state’s many financial aid programs and grants.  

“We want to spread the word and let students know there’s a historic level of financial aid available right now in Massachusetts,” said Education Secretary Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. “Higher education is about opportunity and socio-economic upward mobility, breaking intergenerational cycles of poverty. Post-secondary education not only leads students to fulfilling and rewarding careers, but it also helps build a talented workforce and improve the overall economy.” 

The Higher Education Financial Road Show aims to increase exposure and access to higher education for K-12 students. This administration remains committed to providing Massachusetts colleges and universities with resources to enhance access into the state’s higher education system and provide a high-quality experience to all students regardless of background. One of the key areas of recommendations the administration released in partnership with their Advisory Council to Advance Representation in Education (ACARE) in the fall focused on students having consistent and equal access to the information, tools, guidance, and resources that they need to pursue all types of postsecondary opportunities.  

“In two years, the Healey-Driscoll Administration and state legislature haves more than doubled state financial aid, launching one of the most comprehensive free community college programs in the country and making our public universities tuition and fee free for Pell Grant-eligible students,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “Getting more students to enroll in college and succeed helps these students, their families, and our communities, which then have educated and skilled teachers, nurses, mental health providers, innovators, and leaders.”  

“We have amazing students in Massachusetts, and we want all of them to know that college is within their reach and an important part of their path to a better future,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Acting Commissioner Russell D. Johnston.  “The state has made huge investments in financial aid, and we’re happy to help spread the news about college opportunities.” 

Governor Maura Healey’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget maintains the significant investments that have made Massachusetts’ higher education system more equitable, accessible and affordable. This includes $80 million for MASSGrant Plus, $118 million for free community college, and $28.67 million for SUCCESS funding at public community colleges and universities.  

Students can learn more about state financial aid by visiting Mass.gov/StudentAid.  

*This release has been updated to reflect the correct amount of available state financial aid. 

Financial Aid Road Show schedule: 

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