Go higher programs helps students succeed

Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler, Higher Education Commissioner Noe Ortega and UMass Chancellor Mark Fuller gathered at UMass Dartmouth to celebrate the launch of “Go Higher” on Monday, Oct. 6.

The Go Higher program encourages students who are low-income or cannot afford college to find options so that they can succeed. 

This will mean that two-year and four-year colleges can be free and fee-free for some students through the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid, and community colleges are free regardless of need. 

This will help students at UMass Dartmouth, as 43% of students are PELL Grant Eligible and over 50% of students are first generation college students. Overall, 89% of students are Massachusetts residents. 

This was rolled out on the same day as FAFSA so that students can apply for what suits their needs. 

So far, $400 million has been invested in financial aid by state leaders. This has doubled in the past couple years. 

“Together today we are sending a message,” said Tutwiler, “Higher education in Massachusetts is an opportunity for you, no matter your background, no matter your circumstances. Together we will continue to do what?”

“Go higher,” the crowd responded.