The state of Massachusetts takes extreme pride in its higher education system. It sports some of the finest universities in the nation, notably some Ivy League schools in the eastern part of the state through the “Knowledge Corridor” of community, state and other fine institutions in the West.

It also has an incredible number of grant and scholarship programs available to its state citizens. In fact, there are so many that they have to be split into two articles. This one is for Grants, i.e. scholastic aid based on financial need. There will also be one for scholarships, which are rewarded for academic excellence, good citizenship or other form of merit. Let’s get to it:

The basic grant program is the MASSGrant. It is actually fairly broad when compared to what other states provide. For instance, it’s not only good for vocational certification, associate, bachelor and five-year degree programs from accredited on campus and online schools inside the state, but also for a number of other neighboring states (every one but New York). Like most basic programs, the award is based on filling out a FASFA form and determination of need.

Also important is the Cash Grant Program, which is designed to assist in non-tuition related expenses such as text books, fees and similar costs. It is a compliment to Massachusetts’ Need-Based Tuition Waver Program and is particularly designed for students who would be denied enrollment without it.

For those who can only continue their education on a part time basis, the state provides an appropriate grant. Called the Part Time Grant Program, it was created because of the growing number of students who must hold down jobs, raise families or other similar conditions at the same time. You must also take anywhere from six-to-eleven credit hours (or equivalent). The grant ranges from $200 to the full tuition, depending on circumstance.

There are two grants of interest for those who are of less fortunate circumstance. The first is the Foster Care Grant Program, which is specifically designed for foster children under the age of 24 and good for any school in the continental U.S. Depending on circumstance, it can provide up to $6,000 annually. The other is Public Service Grant, which is for children of state employees who lost their lives in service of Massachusetts. It can cover the entire annual tuition.

Lastly, there is the Paraprofessional Teacher Preparation Grant. This program is designed for those currently working in the state’s education system but want to advance to full-time teachers. They must already be employed in a state-recognized school in some capacity. The award can be anywhere from $625 to $7,500 a year, depending on the school and other conditions.