What is MASFA?
The Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) is used to collect information to help determine eligibility for state financial aid programs that are administered by institutions of higher education in the state of Massachusetts. Non-citizens that are classified as High School Completers, MA residents and cannot apply for federal financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are encouraged to complete the MASFA.
Who is Eligible?
To be eligible for state financial aid through the Tuition Equity Law/Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, you must be what we call a “High School Completer.” To be a “High School Completer” you must have:
- Attended high school in Massachusetts for at least three (3) academic years;
- Earned a diploma or the equivalent (GED/HiSET) in Massachusetts; AND
- Provided one of the following documents:
- A valid Social Security Number (SSN),
- A document reflecting the issuance of an individual taxpayer identification number,
- A document of registration with selective service (if applicable), OR
- If you cannot provide one of the above three documents, if you are not a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States, you can provide a completed DHE Affidavit stating that you will file an application to become a citizen or legal permanent resident within 120 days after you become eligible to do so.
How Do I Apply?
Fill Out the MASFA
Fill out the MASFA and the Tuition Equity Form:
Complete the Tuition Equity form and send it to the Massachusetts colleges of your choice:
- Complete the DHE Tuition Equity Form and Affidavit (high school seniors)
- Tuition Equity Form and Affidavit (all other applicants)
Complete the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) online. The MASFA will automatically be sent to the Massachusetts colleges of your choice.
Parents:
- 2022 Tax Return/Transcript and W2s
Students:
- Complete ’24-’25 MASFA Application
- 2022 Tax Return/Transcript or W2s (if employed)
- Tuition Equity/Massachusetts Department of Higher Education
- Selective Service Registration Card (males only) - sss.gov
How To Request Tax Return/Transcript:
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires you (and your spouse) and/or your parents to file a tax return if either you (or your spouse) and/or your parents meet the income thresholds established annually by the IRS. For more information regarding income thresholds, go to irs.gov. Request a non-filing letter at irs.gov if you were’t required to file taxes.
Check Your Status:
In order to be eligible for state assistance, you must be fully admitted. This program is awarded according to availability of funds and is not guaranteed. While processing your MASFA, additional documentation may be requested to complete your application. Students will be notified via email or mail. We encourage students to reach out to the school they are interested in attending to determine financial aid eligibility and obtain an award offer.