UMass Boston

An aerial view of the UMass Boston Quad and the Campus Center with Boston Harbor in the background
Beacon Pledge

Free tuition for eligible students. Now at UMass Boston.

If you're a Massachusetts resident with an adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less, you can attend UMass Boston for $0 in tuition and mandatory fees.

Beacon Pledge is UMass Boston's promise to keep higher education affordable for Massachusetts residents. The Beacon Pledge program seeks to remove financial barriers and demystify the cost of college.

Graduate with Confidence, Debt-Free

“UMass Boston's financial aid has had an incredible impact. Not only am I earning a career-ready bachelor's in communications and marketing management, and gaining experience through student work opportunities—this May, I'm going to graduate with zero debt.”

— Isabella Pino, Student

 

How does Beacon Pledge work?

It's simple. If you qualify for Beacon Pledge, 100% of your tuition and mandatory fees will be covered by federal, state, and institutional aid. You are likely to qualify if you can answer "yes" to these two questions:

  1. Does your family have an adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less?
  2. Are you a Massachusetts resident?

Candidates can apply for Beacon Pledge by completing the UMass Boston application and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA).

Why is it important for UMass Boston to offer Beacon Pledge?

UMass Boston educates a significant and growing number of high-need in-state students, many of whom are the first in their family to attend college. For years, in alignment with our mission to provide an accessible and exceptional education, the university has provided tens of millions of dollars in institutional funding to ensure our highest need students are able to afford a UMass Boston education.
 
Thanks to the Healey-Driscoll Administration's investment in MassGrant Plus and MassGrant Plus Expansion, qualifying students will have total tuition and mandatory fees covered through a combination of federal, state and institutional aid.

Comments from Local & State Leaders

Chancellor Marcello Suarez Orozo
I want to thank the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their unwavering support of public higher education. Considering over 80% of our graduates remain in Massachusetts, the state’s continued investment in public higher education is an investment of our future workforce. Our Beacon Pledge program will make a four-year degree at Boston’s premier public research university not just a dream but an attainable reality.
Marcelo Suárez-Orozco, UMass Boston Chancellor
Governor of Massachusetts Maura Healey
We have made important progress over the past couple of years to make higher education more affordable and accessible for all students, and the creation of the Beacon Pledge will allow even more students to pursue their education and future careers at UMass Boston. I'm grateful for the strong leadership of Chancellor Suárez-Orozco and look forward to continuing to support the amazing work happening at UMass Boston and campuses across the state.
Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts
Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts Kim Driscoll
Here in Massachusetts, we pride ourselves on being leaders in education—not only because we're home to world-class institutions, but also because we've taken major steps to make higher education more accessible and more affordable. Beacon Pledge will break down barriers and grant more people an opportunity to pursue higher education, which is good for our students, schools, businesses, and economy.
Kim Driscoll, Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts
Marty Meehan
UMass Boston’s Beacon Pledge program highlights how truly affordable a UMass degree is, and I applaud Chancellor Suárez-Orozco... Since 2015, the University of Massachusetts system has made record investments in university-funded aid, boosting it by 73 percent to $409 million annually. Our record institutional aid combined with the historic expansion of state financial aid through MASSGrant Plus by the Healey-Driscoll Administration and the Legislature has made this possible.
Marty Meehan, President, University of Massachusetts
Karen Spilka
Access to exceptional public higher education in Massachusetts expands further with today’s milestone at UMass Boston. I’m heartened to see the campus take this transformative step, and proud that our historic commitments to investing in public higher education are bearing fruit. I applaud Chancellor Suárez-Orozco for making world-class education possible for even more students and families.
Karen E. Spilka, Massachusetts Senate President
Michelle Wu
Congratulations to UMass Boston and Chancellor Suárez-Orozco on this bold step to open even more doors to a world-class education. As Boston's premier public research university that educates and trains more BPS students than any other higher education institution, Beacon Pledge will make a four-year degree attainable, equitable and accessible for Boston residents. This is a critical step to achieving education equity.
Michelle Wu, Mayor of Boston
Noe Ortega
I commend Chancellor Suárez-Orozco for lifting up this opportunity for students with the greatest financial need. Knowledge of affordable college opportunities is crucial for students, and finding ways to work with our institutions to leverage the historic financial aid investments by the Healey-Driscoll Administration remains a priority for the Department. I look forward to working with UMass Boston and all of our public institutions to grow participation in these programs.
Noe Ortega, Massachusetts Commissioner of Higher Education
Nick Collins
UMass Boston’s commitment to providing a high-quality education to every deserving student, regardless of financial background, is a game-changer for our communities and our Commonwealth. By eliminating financial barriers for in-state students with lower family incomes, UMass Boston is ensuring that opportunity and access to higher education are within reach for all. This initiative not only strengthens our workforce but also empowers the next generation of leaders right here in Massachusetts.
Nick Collins, Massachusetts State Senator
Dan Hunt
Chancellor Suarez-Orozco’s visionary leadership has elevated UMass Boson to a new level of excellence. Today’s announcement builds upon the state’s unprecedented investment in public higher education and offers clarity for BPS and students across Massachusetts that will increase access and equity at Boston’s premier public research university.
Dan Hunt, Massachusetts State Representative
David Biele
As a first-generation college student, I have learned that education is the great equalizer. I'm grateful to the leadership of the University of Massachusetts Boston in our students and their families by increasing opportunities to receive a world-class education through this residential program
David Biele, Representative Massachusetts Legislature
Mary Skipper
This exciting new initiative will make the dream of a college education even more accessible to BPS students and their families right here at home by reducing costs. We are grateful to UMass Boston for recognizing our students' desire to achieve and for partnering with us to create the first ever University Assisted Community Hub School in BPS.
Mary Skipper, Superintendent, Boston Public Schools
james rooney
I am grateful to our Board members President Marty Meehan and Chancellor Marcelo Suárez-Orozco for their strong leadership. With this announcement, more students and their families in need of assistance will be able to attend UMass Boston for free. UMass Boston will continue to be celebrated as one of the best higher education institutions in New England while simultaneously accelerating the social and economic mobility of its students.
James E. Rooney, President & CEO, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce
M. Lee Pelton
As the top-enrolling four-year institution for Boston Public Schools families, UMass Boston has a critical place in the city’s education pipeline, especially for first-generation students and lower-income families. By eliminating tuition for qualified students, UMass Boston is sending a powerful, simple message about access to education, and bolstering its own place in making Boston a more equitable and vibrant city. We are honored to partner with them in our shared commitment to equity.
Lee Pelton, President & CEO, The Boston Foundation
Kendalle Burlin OConnell
MassBio sees great value in providing people of all socioeconomic backgrounds opportunities to work and succeed in the innovation economy in Massachusetts. This UMass Boston initiative will contribute to filling the robust talent pipeline the life sciences industry demands and provide an excellent continuing education option to graduates of MassBio’s Bioversity certification program.
Kendalle Burlin O’Connell, CEO & President, MassBio
Nicole Obi
UMass Boston’s commitment to offering free tuition to students from low-income families is a monumental step towards equity in education. This initiative will empower low-income students, particularly students of color, to pursue their dreams without the burden of financial stress. By breaking down this barrier to educational opportunity, we are not only investing in the postsecondary success of our young people, but also fostering a stronger, more equitable economy for the entire Commonwealth.
Nicole Obi, President & CEO, Black Economic Council of Massachusetts
Neil Sullivan
Allow me to join the chorus of appreciation. This is definitely a signature moment for Boston's urban university.
Neil Sullivan, Executive Director, Boston Private Industry Council & longtime Dorchester resident
James T. Brett
Access to higher education is key to long-term economic opportunity and success, while also ensuring that the region’s 21st century innovation economy will have the highly skilled workforce needed for continued growth. The New England Council commends UMass Boston for taking this important step to reduce barriers to a college degree and to ensure that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to receive a top-notch education.
James T. Brett, President & CEO, The New England Council
Jay Ash
Massachusetts' calling card has and needs to continue to be the education and training of our workforce. UMass Boston's bold move to make a great education even more accessible to those from lower income backgrounds will certainly provide fortunate graduates with tremendous opportunities to prosper as participants in what UMass Boston is helping to ensure is the nation's best workforce well into the future.
Jay Ash, President & CEO, Massachusetts Competitive Partnership
Christopher Anderson
This initiative, capped at four years and designed to cover the last dollar of existing financial aid, will provide critical support to around 3,000 students, many from Suffolk County, without increasing the current $45 million commitment to financial aid. By helping more students remain in college and complete their degrees, UMass Boston is not only investing in their future but also in the strength of our region's workforce, ensuring Massachusetts remains competitive in the innovation economy.
Christopher Anderson, President, Massachusetts High Technology Council
JD Chesloff
Massachusetts is facing a workforce challenge as employers throughout the state struggle to fill open roles with diverse talent. With Beacon Pledge, UMass Boston is taking steps to address this challenge, create opportunities for students, and in doing so, train and educate more diverse talent for the in-demand jobs all throughout the Commonwealth. We look forward to partnering with you to continue to ensure Massachusetts has the talent it needs to win and maintain its global competitiveness.
JD Chesloff, President & and CEO, Massachusetts Business Roundtable
Eneida Roman
Underrepresented groups, including the Latino community, which makes up nearly a fifth of Massachusetts' population, still face significant gaps in access to higher education. UMass Boston’s decision to offer free tuition to low-income students is a game changer. It opens doors of opportunity, invests in future leaders, and helps build a more equitable and competitive Massachusetts where everyone can thrive.
Eneida Roman, President & CEO, Amplify LatinX

Financial Aid by the Numbers

university hall interior showing students walking in blurred motion up and down the main entrance stairs
$186m
We award $186 million in financial aid each year
student sits relaxing with headphones on the pyramids outside Campus Center
#1
in New England for social mobility according to U.S. News & World Report
student in motion walking through the Quad
Save
Lowest average debt upon graduation per student of any UMass campus
girls studying around table one looking at other who's holding coffee cup

Beacon Pledge FAQ

What is the Beacon Pledge program?

Beacon Pledge is a financial aid program that covers 100% of tuition and mandatory fees for qualifying in-state students beginning in the fall 2025 semester. The Beacon Pledge demonstrates UMass Boston’s long standing financial commitment to high-need in-state students and families and aims at demystifying college costs. Tuition and mandatory fees will be covered by a combination of federal, state and institutional aid. 

Do I qualify for Beacon Pledge?

To qualify for Beacon Pledge free tuition guarantee, you must meet all of the following criteria:

  • In-state student meeting the Department of Higher Education residency classification and eligible for Massachusetts state aid.
  • Enrolled full-time (12+ credits) in an undergraduate degree-seeking program
  • Complete FAFSA or MASFA and meet all eligibility requirements prior to June 1.
  • Adjusted Gross Income of $75,000 or less and have demonstrated high need which is determined by the FAFSA as being Pell eligible or have a student aid index up to 7500 on the MASFA.
  • Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress in accordance with institutional and federal standards.
  • Must not have received a prior bachelor’s degree or its equivalent
  • Must be enrolled in the fall semester. Beacon Pledge does not extend to summer or winter semesters and students who begin in the spring semester will not receive the pledge until the following fall semester.

How is Massachusetts residency determined?

Beacon Pledge is reserved for qualifying Massachusetts residents who are also eligible for state aid. Learn more about how in-state residency is determined by visiting the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education website and the Massachusetts Office of Financial Student Assistance.

How is adjusted gross income (AGI) defined?

For dependent students AGI is the parent and student AGI as reported on the FAFSA. For independent students AGI would be the student’s and spouse (if married) AGI as reported on the FAFSA. The FAFSA uses prior-prior year AGI information. Therefore, for fall 2025, the 2025-26 FAFSA will collect 2023 federal tax information.

How do I apply for Beacon Pledge?

There is no additional application or steps required to be considered for Beacon Pledge. As stated above, students must meet all eligibility requirements and admissions and financial aid deadlines and requirements by June 1.

What if I don’t qualify? Or what if my family’s financial situation changes?

Students who do not meet the eligibility requirements for Beacon Pledge may still qualify for UMass Boston’s generous merit scholarships and/or financial aid. Students must meet eligibility requirements each semester in order to have tuition and mandatory fees covered under Beacon Pledge

Do I have to live on campus to be eligible for Beacon Pledge?

No, there is no housing requirement to be eligible for Beacon Pledge.

Are current students eligible for Beacon Pledge?

Yes, current UMass Boston students who meet the eligibility requirements will qualify for free tuition and mandatory fees under Beacon Pledge.

What costs does Beacon Pledge cover?

Beacon Pledge covers in-state tuition and mandatory fees. The program does not cover the cost of campus housing, meals, required fees (Orientation, Student ID, etc.), or program-specific curriculum fees. For a list of tuition and mandatory fees please see the following page: umb.edu/bursar.

Do I have to complete the FAFSA/MASFA?

Yes, students must complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to qualify. Students who are ineligible to file the FAFSA but qualify to complete the Massachusetts Application for Student Financial Aid (MASFA) must do so.

Is there an application deadline to qualify for Beacon Pledge

New students must meet all posted admissions application deadlines to qualify. Students must all complete FAFSA or MASFA and meet all eligibility requirements prior to June 1.

Is Beacon pledge automatically awarded for four years or does it need to be renewed each year?

Each year a student’s eligibility is reviewed and determined. As long as the student meets the eligibility requirements outlined, they will receive the pledge each year for up to four years.

Are students enrolled in a study abroad program or those who have received approval to take credits at another institution eligible to receive the Beacon Pledge?

Students enrolled in a study abroad program or are taking approved courses at another institution are not eligible for the Beacon Pledge. Students who do not meet the eligibility requirements for the Beacon Pledge may still qualify for UMass Boston’s generous merit scholarships and/or financial aid.

Who can I contact if I have questions about Beacon Pledge?

New students are encouraged to contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at undergrad.admissions@umb.edu if they have questions about submitting an application. For questions about cost or applying for aid, students can contact finaid@umb.edu. Current students may contact The One Stop with any questions.

Contact Us

Application Questions
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
undergrad.admissions@umb.edu
Cost & Aid Questions
Financial Aid Services
finaid@umb.edu