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Eligibility Requirements

  1. Be a Massachusetts resident

  2. Submit FAFSA

  3. Have demonstrated financial need as determined by information provided on the FAFSA

  4. Full-time, first-time-in-college or transfer students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree are eligible to apply

  5. Have a family adjusted gross income (AGI) between $0 and $75,000

  6. Maintain satisfactory academic progress

MassArt Start FAQs

MassArt Start covers the cost of tuition for eligible students through a combination of federal, state, and institutional aid. A significant portion of the funding is offered through MA state financial aid programs, including the MassGrant PLUS program, which provides additional support to Massachusetts residents with financial need. Once you qualify for MassArt Start, you will not need to pay tuition, allowing you to focus entirely on your studies and creative growth. The program is designed to eliminate financial barriers and make a MassArt education more accessible, enabling you to fully engage in your academic and artistic development.

MassArt Start covers in-state tuition and fees. The program does not cover the cost of campus housing, meals, or other expenses. Additional information related to Cost of Attendance can be found here.

Yes, MassArt Start is renewable each year, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements and contingent upon funding. You will need to reapply for financial aid annually by submitting the required forms (FAFSA or MASFA), and your financial need will be reassessed each year. If you remain eligible, you will continue to receive MassArt Start funding for the duration of your undergraduate education.

To apply for MassArt Start, you will need to complete the following steps:

  • Submit a financial aid application: You will be considered for MassArt Start when you submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA).
  • Meet eligibility requirements: Your financial eligibility will be determined based on your family’s gross income (AGI) and other factors outlined in the eligibility section.
  • Wait for confirmation: If you qualify for MassArt Start, you will receive notification as part of your financial aid package.

MassArt Start is limited to students whose family’s annual gross income (AGI) is $75,000 or less. If your family’s AGI is higher than this, you will not be eligible for MassArt Start. However, you may still be eligible for other forms of financial aid, and we encourage you to apply for financial assistance through FAFSA or MASFA.

If you have any questions about MassArt Start, please feel free to reach out to the Office of Student Financial Assistance at financialaid@massart.edu.

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First Time & Transfer Students

Wondering what it’s like to be an undergraduate or transfer student at MassArt? During your time here, you’ll immerse yourself in a curriculum that allows you to explore new passions while also going deep into the areas that you love.

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Costs & Aid

Connecting eligible undergraduate, graduate, and certificate students to a wide range of financial assistance options and resources.

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Boston, MA 02115

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