Boston, MA — February 21, 2025 — Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) continues its mission of eliminating financial barriers for creative students with MassArt Start, a structured approach to providing affordable education for eligible Massachusetts residents. This initiative enables students to pursue their creative aspirations at one of the nation’s premier public colleges of art and design by removing tuition costs as a barrier to higher education.

Supported by the statewide MASSGrant Plus and MASSGrant Plus Expansion programs, MassArt Start ensures that first-time undergraduate students who meet financial eligibility requirements, including being Pell Grant-eligible or having an annual gross income (AGI) of $75,000 or less, can access the funding they need. The grant covers tuition through a combination of federal, state, and institutional aid, enabling students to focus on their studies and creative growth.

This initiative reflects MassArt’s ongoing commitment to making exceptional art and design education both attainable and affordable. By removing tuition as a barrier, MassArt Start ensures that eligible students have the financial support they need to pursue their creative passions without constraints.

“At MassArt, we’ve seen how art and design can transform lives and communities,” said Mary K. Grant, President of MassArt. “MassArt Start ensures that talented students from across the Commonwealth have the opportunity to create, dream big, and shape the future—regardless of their financial background.”

Eligible students are considered for MassArt Start as part of the financial aid process upon submission of their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). MassArt Start funding must be renewed annually through reapplication.

MassArt, the nation’s first independent public college of art and design, has been committed to providing exceptional, accessible education for over 150 years. MassArt Start strengthens this legacy, furthering the College’s mission to foster creativity and make educational opportunities available to all. This program also supports the growth of the Commonwealth’s vibrant creative economy.

“Support from MASSGrant Plus and MASSGrant Plus Expansion allows us to open doors for talented students who may have thought an education in the arts was out of reach,” said Lauren Wilshusen, Dean of Admissions and Enrollment Management at MassArt. “With MassArt Start, we’re welcoming more voices and perspectives into our classrooms and studios, enriching the creative fabric of our institution.”

Financial aid applications for Fall 2025 are now open, and prospective students are encouraged to visit MassArt’s website for detailed information about eligibility, undergraduate admissions, and opportunities.

To learn more about MassArt Start and MassArt’s commitment to making art and design education financially accessible to all, visit massart.edu/massart-start.

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About Massachusetts College of Art and Design
Founded in 1873, Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) is the first independent public college of art and design in the United States. MassArt educates passionate, curious, and talented students to become the next generation of creative leaders and makers in fine arts, design, and media. MassArt’s mission is rooted in access, equity, and excellence.

Media Contact:

Amanda Karr

Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

akarr@massart.edu