Today, things like accessibility, economics, and the hectic pace of life have drastically impacted the amount of educational opportunities available to those with big ideas and career ambition. In Massachusetts, we recognize this is a huge issue, because education isn't so much a luxury; it’s a personal right. And that’s exactly why we’re helping make college degrees more equitable and attainable through our Free College program.

What’s Free College?

If you’re a Massachusetts resident over the age of 25, Quincy College's Free College program is a groundbreaking opportunity to return to higher education, transform your career, or complete that degree you started years ago—all without the worry of tuition costs and fees.This initiative marks a pivotal moment for adult learners, providing access to new possibilities and career paths. In fact, it’s more than just a program; it's a doorway to new beginnings.

Free College Benefits

The Free College program covers your tuition and fees, and even provides additional financial assistance to pay for books and supplies once you’ve enrolled. This ensures no financial barriers stand in the way of your academic experience. Beyond these perks, Quincy College also offers additional financial aid opportunities to further ease the burden, making your educational journey as smooth as possible.

Who’s Eligible for Free College?

Do you meet the criteria for Free College? Here’s who eligible:
  • Permanent legal residents of Massachusetts for at least one year before the academic year begins
  • Adults 25 years or older by the first day of classes
  • Students already enrolled in an associate degree or certificate program at Quincy College
  • Adults who have not yet earned a college degree
  • Students who have enrolled in at least 6 credits per semester
  • Students who have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for Quincy College
If you check off all of these boxes, you’re the perfect candidate for Free College.

Free College Programs of Study

As a fully accredited institution of higher learning, Quincy College offers an expansive list of academic programs to suit the needs of our diverse student population. Whether it’s an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or certificate program you’ve got your eye on, rest assured, our tailored academic courses provide the perfect roadmap to career success. When selecting a program, make sure to consider your long-term objectives, personal passions, and practicalities of your chosen field. Programs include:

Associate Degree

  • Accounting
  • Biology
  • Biotechnology & Good Manufacturing Practice
  • Business Administration
  • Business Management
  • Computer Science: Cyber Security
  • Computer Science: Networking
  • Computer Science: Programming
  • Criminal Justice
  • Criminal Justice: Law Enforcement
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Elementary Education
  • Exercise Science & Personal Training
  • Fine Arts: Music & Theatre
  • Fine Arts: Visual Arts
  • Fire Science Technology
  • Health Sciences
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Human Services
  • Liberal Arts: Behavioral Science
  • Liberal Arts: English
  • Liberal Arts: General Studies
  • Liberal Arts: Government
  • Liberal Arts: History
  • Liberal Arts: Humanities
  • Liberal Arts: Psychology
  • Liberal Arts: Social Sciences
  • Natural Science
  • Paralegal Studies

Certificate Courses

  • Accounting
  • Central Processing Technology
  • Computer Science
  • Computer Science: Networking
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Elder Care Gerontology
  • Emergency Medical Technician
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Foundational Fitness
  • Healthcare Administration: Medical Billing & Coding
  • Healthcare Foundations
  • Paralegal Studies
  • Social Work
  • Substance Addiction
  • Substance Addiction Assistant
 

How to Apply for Free College

There are two simple steps to apply for Free College. First, you’ll need to complete a FAFSA form (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Any student who’d like to be considered for federal, state, and school financial aid—regardless of income—must complete a FAFSA form to get the process started. If you need any assistance filling out your FAFSA form, don’t hesitate to contact our Academic Advisors and financial aid teams. They’re incredible resources and happy to guide you along your journey. More importantly, they’ll help you gather all the documentation and personal information necessary to complete your form. Once you’ve finished your FAFSA, move on to step two: apply to Quincy College! After completing these two steps, you’ll be well on your way to an affordable, accessible educational experience at one of Massachusetts’s most diverse academic institutions—Quincy College.

Free College Guaranteed Credit Transfer

A significant advantage of starting your educational journey at Quincy College is the flexibility to transfer your credits to a bachelor’s program later on in your studies. This pathway can significantly reduce the overall cost of obtaining a bachelor’s degree from a traditional four-year institution. In fact, Quincy College’s associate degree programs are designed with transferability in mind, ensuring you can take the next step in your educational journey without losing time or money in the process. Planning ahead with an advisor can help you align your coursework with the transfer requirements of your intended bachelor’s program, making the transition a smooth and cost-effective experience.

Maximizing Your Free College Experience

Returning to school as an adult learner presents unique challenges and opportunities. Balancing your studies with work and personal commitments requires careful planning and time management, so make sure to take full advantage of the resources here at Quincy College. From academic advising to student services, we’ll provide the invaluable support and guidance you need to succeed.

Start Your Journey Today

Quincy College hosts regular information sessions to help guide new student learners through the Free College program and application process. Whatever your burning question might be, our Admissions team will be happy to answer. Remember, Quincy College is here to support you every step of the way. Ready to get started? Check out one of our information sessions or contact our Admissions office directly. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Your future is waiting, and Quincy College is here to help you build it.