EDUCATION GRANT FOR WORKING ADULTS AND DISPLACED WORKERS

Program was not funded for FY2010-11

A new Educational Rewards Grant program has been established by the Massachusetts Workforce Solutions Act/Economic Stimulus Bill. This program funds grants of up to $3,000 for students seeking training in a high demand occupation. It gives special attention to low-income working adults and displaced workers. This need-based grant program is to serve as a last resort after all other federal and state financial aid resources have been exhausted. The award under this program ranges from $200 to $3,000. In addition to paying for tuition, these flexible grants allow up to 30% of the award to be used to help with living expenses such as transportation and child care.

Student eligibility:

• Shall be a dislocated worker or an individual whose income is at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level.
• Has applied for financial aid using the standard Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit necessary documentation to verify an income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level.
• Is not in default of any federal or state student loans for attendance at any institution or owe a refund for any previous financial aid received.
• Is enrolled in a certificate or degree program and meets the institution’s requirements for satisfactory academic progress.
• Is a Massachusetts resident for at least one year.
• Is a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen under Federal Title IV regulations.

For more information or to apply: http://www.osfa.mass.edu/default.asp?page=educationalRewardsGrant. Information is also available through local Career Centers and Community Colleges.

- From: MIRA Bulletin: July 24th, 2007 and the Mass. Board of Higher Education Office of Student Financial Assistance webpage.

07/07 (Last update 7/20/2011)