Worcester State University is strengthening its longstanding commitment to making high quality education accessible with the launch of Worcester State ValuePlus, which brings together a range of financial resources and academic supports that reduce or eliminate obstacles so that every student can earn a bachelor’s degree.
Through Worcester State ValuePlus, students can attend Worcester State for free if they are Massachusetts residents, planning to commute, and Pell eligible (adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less). Those who qualify will have tuition and fees covered by a combination of federal, state, and institutional aid. In addition, Worcester State University provides generous financial aid and robust merit scholarships for other students. Currently, 78% of Worcester State students receive some form of aid with an average annual award of $10,111.
“We know that a bachelor’s degree is a transformational credential that changes lives and enables individuals to achieve their dreams,” said President Barry Maloney. “As Worcester’s only public baccalaureate and master’s degree granting university, we take seriously our responsibility to make the aspiration of a four-year college degree real for our hardworking families and students. With ValuePlus, we are leveraging the generous investment of the Healey-Driscoll administration to ensure all students in our community have access to Worcester State’s outstanding undergraduate education.”
Beyond traditional financial aid, all enrolled Worcester State undergraduates are also eligible to apply for more than 400 donor-funded scholarship awards totaling $1.8 million per year given by the Worcester State Foundation. These scholarships are offered across a range of majors and interests.
At Worcester State, the ValuePlus commitment to support students extends beyond tuition and fees. Students can apply for Worcester State student emergency funds for assistance if they face unexpected expenses that put their academic progress at risk.
Students can also take advantage of cost saving opportunities in the classroom. The university offers hundreds of course sections that utilize free or low-cost textbooks and course materials. During the 2023-24 academic year, Worcester State students saved nearly $2 million in textbooks and course materials by enrolling in more than 1,000 course sections offered with no cost and low-cost materials. Most of the university’s 90+ academic programs have no-cost and low-cost materials available.
“Together with Worcester State’s MajorPlus academic framework, which allows students to complete two programs in just four years at no extra cost, Worcester State ValuePlus opens doors for our students,” said Vice President of Enrollment Management Ryan Forsythe. “We work with students in a holistic way with attention to their financial needs, academic interests, and future goals to ensure they will succeed and graduate.”
On December 12, at 7:30 p.m. the university will host a free, virtual financial aid session open to families and students. This 30-minute session will include an overview of the types of financial aid available, the process for applying for financial aid, and how students may qualify to attend Worcester State for free through Worcester State ValuePlus. A bilingual Spanish speaking financial aid counselor will be available to answer questions. Zoom link: https://worcester.zoom.us/j/96844175583
Worcester State ValuePlus FAQ:
How do I learn more?
Attend the university’s free virtual financial aid session on Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m via zoom. (Zoom link: https://worcester.zoom.us/j/96844175583). To learn more about Worcester State University, contact the Admissions Office at 508-929-8040 or admissions@worcester.edu. To learn more about Worcester State ValuePlus, contact the Financial Aid Office at 508-929-8056 or financial-aid@worcester.edu.
Does free college apply if I am just taking a few classes?
You must be enrolled in an academic program and working toward bachelor’s degree completion and attending at least half-time (6 or more credits).
I am already enrolled at Worcester State. Can I apply for free college for the remainder of my education?
Yes. If you meet the criteria (Massachusetts resident, commuter, Pell eligible) you can apply for free college by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov to see if you qualify.
I’m thinking about transferring to Worcester State from community college so I can earn my bachelor’s degree. Can I apply for financial aid if I am coming in as a sophomore or junior?
Yes. If a student transfers to Worcester State and meets other eligibility criteria, they can be considered for additional financial aid consideration with ValuePlus.
Is there any financial aid to help with the cost of living on campus?
Yes, there is financial aid for on-campus housing. This aid will automatically be considered when students fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov.
How do I apply for the donor scholarships?
All enrolled, degree-seeking students are encouraged to apply for scholarships. Worcester State University’s online scholarship application system automatically matches you with all of the available scholarships for which you are qualified based on your application and information in the university’s student information system. The annual application period begins on Feb. 1, 2025, and awards are made for the following academic year.
How do I know if the course I am taking has free or low-cost materials?
Students can locate free or low-cost course sections when registering for classes.
Our News
Hundreds of students take part in Fresh Check Day activities for mental health
Worcester State students participated in games, raffles, and other fun hands-on activities at the 9th annual Fresh Check Day on October 23. The event is an annual emotional well-being fair for WSU . . .