The $10,000 Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship: 7 Must-Know Facts For The 2025-2026 Application Cycle
Are you a Massachusetts resident planning to enroll in a degree program that leads to a high-growth career? The Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship Program (MHDS) is one of the Commonwealth’s most significant financial aid opportunities, specifically designed to address critical workforce shortages across the state. This scholarship is not based solely on financial need, but also on your commitment to pursuing an undergraduate degree in fields like healthcare, STEM, and education, making it a powerful tool for students with a clear career path.
As of December 25, 2025, the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) has confirmed the application window for the 2025-2026 academic year. This guide breaks down the most current and essential details, from the exact deadlines to the specific degree programs that could qualify you for up to $10,000 in tuition assistance.
Key Details and Eligibility Requirements for 2025-2026
The Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship is a state-funded initiative aimed at bolstering the Commonwealth's economy by incentivizing students to complete degrees in disciplines where employers face the greatest hiring challenges. Understanding the specific criteria is the first step toward securing this valuable award.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
The program has strict requirements that must be met by all applicants. These are non-negotiable and are consistently enforced by the Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) within the DHE.
- Residency: Must be a permanent legal resident of Massachusetts for at least one year prior to the start of the academic year.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen or an eligible non-citizen.
- Enrollment Status: Must be an undergraduate student enrolled in an eligible degree or certificate program.
- Institution: Must be attending a public or independent college or university located in Massachusetts.
- Academic Standing: A minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher is required.
- Financial Aid Filing: Must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025-2026 academic year.
- MASSAid Account: Applicants must create and utilize a MASSAid Student Portal account to complete the scholarship-specific application.
What is the Award Value and Disbursement?
The scholarship offers a significant financial boost, with the maximum award varying based on the type of institution you attend. The funds are disbursed by the participating institution directly to the student's account.
- Public Universities, State Universities, and Independent Institutions: Up to $10,000 per year.
- Community Colleges: Up to $5,000 per year.
Note that the final award amount is determined by the DHE after the application period concludes and is subject to state funding and the number of qualified applicants.
Critical 2025-2026 Application Dates and Process
Missing the application window is the most common reason qualified students lose out on the High Demand Scholarship. The application process is straightforward but requires timely action through the state's financial aid system.
The 2025-2026 Application Timeline
The window for the upcoming academic year is relatively short, so prospective students must plan ahead, especially for filing the FAFSA and creating the MASSAid account.
- FAFSA Filing: Must be completed for the 2025-2026 academic year.
- Application Opens: Monday, June 2, 2025.
- Application Closes: Friday, July 18, 2025.
It is highly recommended to complete the FAFSA and set up your MASSAid Student Portal account well before the June 2nd opening date to ensure you can submit your High Demand Scholarship application immediately.
20+ High-Demand Degree Programs That Qualify You
The core of the Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship is its focus on specific career pathways. The eligible fields are determined by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) through annual reports on labor market conditions. By choosing a major in one of these areas, you are directly contributing to the state's economic development goals.
The following list expands on the general categories to provide concrete examples of degree and certificate programs that are typically eligible, focusing on the state's most critical workforce needs.
I. STEM-Related Fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)
Technology and engineering remain at the forefront of Massachusetts' high-demand sectors, particularly in the Boston and Cambridge innovation hubs.
- Computer Science: Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Software Engineering.
- Engineering: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Biomedical Engineering.
- Life Sciences: Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Sciences.
- Mathematics: Actuarial Science, Applied Mathematics.
II. Health Professions and Social Work
The healthcare industry has a persistent and growing need for skilled professionals across all levels, from direct patient care to specialized therapy and social services.
- Nursing: Registered Nursing (RN), Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN).
- Allied Health: Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Respiratory Therapy.
- Medical Services: Dental Hygiene, Medical Assisting, Radiologic Technology.
- Mental Health: Social Work, Psychology, Counseling.
- Pharmacy: Pharmacist, Pharmacy Technician.
III. Education and Public Service
The Commonwealth is actively looking to fill teaching and public safety roles, offering a stable and essential career path for scholarship recipients.
- Education: Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Secondary Education (especially Math and Science).
- Public Service: Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, Fire Science.
- Business/Economics: Accounting, Finance, Supply Chain Management, Economics.
If your specific program is not listed above, check with your institution's financial aid office or the DHE directly. Any undergraduate degree or certificate program identified by the EOLWD as an in-demand profession is eligible.
Maximizing Your Chances of Receiving the Scholarship
While the program is designed to be accessible, competition can be high. Following these tips will ensure your application is as strong as possible.
- Maintain a High GPA: The 3.0 GPA is a minimum. A higher GPA demonstrates a commitment to academic success, which is a key factor for the DHE.
- Complete the Application Early: Submitting your application on or near the June 2nd opening date minimizes the risk of technical issues and ensures your file is reviewed promptly.
- Verify Your Program: Before applying, confirm with your school's financial aid office that your specific major is designated as a "high-demand" field for the current academic year.
- Check Your Residency: Ensure all your documentation clearly proves you have been a permanent legal resident of Massachusetts for the required one-year period.
The Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship is an invaluable resource for students aiming for meaningful careers in the Commonwealth. By meeting the eligibility requirements and adhering to the 2025-2026 deadlines, you can significantly reduce the cost of your education while preparing for a high-growth, stable profession.
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