Paul Tsongas Scholarship

Scholarship Description

The Paul Tsongas Scholarship is a merit-based program that rewards Massachusetts students with a grade point average (G.P.A.) of 3.75 and highly competitive Scholastic Aptitude Test (S.A.T.) scores of at least 1200 (or the American College Testing [A.C.T.] equivalent). Eligible students receive a waiver of tuition and mandatory fees at a Massachusetts state university.

Scholarship Details

• Merit-based scholarship providing a full waiver of tuition and mandatory fees
• Eligible for study at any of the eight Massachusetts state universities
• Recipients must maintain a GPA of 3.3 for continued eligibility
• Scholarship covers up to four years of study
• Each state university awards up to five new scholarships annually

Eligibility Criteria

• Must reside in Massachusetts for at least one year prior to enrollment with intent to remain
• Qualify as a “High School Completer” under Massachusetts tuition equity law or be a U.S. Citizen, permanent legal resident, or eligible non-citizen under Title IV regulations
• Achieve a minimum GPA of 3.75 and SAT score of at least 1200 (or ACT equivalent)
• Submit a FAFSA or equivalent application to demonstrate financial need
• Must not be in default on federal or state student loans or owe a refund for previous financial aid
• Meet the eligibility criteria established by the university and approved by the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education

Eligible Institutions

• Bridgewater State University
• Fitchburg State University
• Framingham State University
• Massachusetts College of Art and Design
• Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
• Salem State University
• Westfield State University
• Worcester State University

Application Process

1. Contact the Massachusetts state university you plan to attend for application requirements and deadlines
2. Complete the FAFSA or equivalent financial aid application
3. Submit documentation to verify eligibility, including residency and academic achievements
4. Await notification from the university regarding your scholarship award

Contact the Massachusetts state college that you plan to attend for application requirements and deadlines. You can also contact the DHE’s Office of Student Financial Assistance.