When you complete the FAFSA, you automatically apply for most of these programs. Learn more about applying for financial aid here.
Federal Pell Grant Program: Available to undergraduates enrolled for six or more credits who demonstrate need. Up to $7,395.00 per year. Eligibility limited to a maximum of 12 semesters or 6 years.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant: Available to undergraduates enrolled for nine or more credits who demonstrate exceptional need.
Federal College Work Study: Part-time jobs for full-time students enrolled for who demonstrate need. A bi-weekly paycheck is received for hours worked. Wage begins at $15.00/hour and all earnings are paid at straight time. Award cannot be applied to the semester invoice.
Federal Direct Subsidized Student Loan: Long-term, low interest loan. Fixed interest of 6.39% for the 2025-2026 academic year. Available to undergraduate students enrolled for six or more credits who demonstrate need. Repayment begins six months after graduation or withdrawal. Loan fees of 1.057% (before October 1, 2025) will be deducted from all loan proceeds.
Federal Direct Unsubsidized Student Loan: Long-term, low interest loan. Fixed interest of 6.39% for the 2025-2026 academic year for undergraduate loans. Fixed interest of 6.39% for the 2025-2026 graduate loans. Undergraduate and graduate students must be enrolled for six or more credits. Not based on financial need; however, you must apply using the financial aid application process. Interest payment charged while enrolled. Repayment begins six months after graduation or withdrawal. Loan fees of 1.057% (before October 1, 2025) will be deducted from all loan proceeds. Loan maximums same as subsidized, above.
Federal Direct Parent Plus Loan Program: Available to parents of dependent students. Fixed interest rate of 8.94% for the 2025-2026 academic year. Loan fees of 4.228% are deducted from all loans processed before October 1, 2025. A parent's PLUS loan will enter repayment 60 days after the funds are fully disbursed and the repayment term is up to 10 years. However, a parent PLUS loan borrower is allowed to defer payments while the student is in school at least half time and for a 6 month grace period after they graduate or leave school. It would be up to the borrower to make payment arrangements with their servicer. Parents may borrow up to the full cost of attendance less merit and need-based aid. Direct Parent Plus Loan info.
For a full list of Massachusetts grant, scholarship, loan, and tuition waiver programs, please visit the Massachusetts Office of Student Financial Services.
413.662.5219
finaid@mcla.edu
