What is the Tuition-Free Community College (TFCC) Plan?
The Tuition-Free Community College (TFCC) Plan pays for up to three years of tuition and fees for Boston residents -- regardless of their age, income, or immigration status (excluding F1 visas) -- who are pursuing an associate degree or certificate program at a partner college.
What are the eligibility criteria for TFCC?
To be eligible for TFCC, you must:
- Be accepted into an Associates or Certificate program
- Complete the FAFSA or supplemental form
- Be a 18-24 year old Boston resident without an advanced degree
- Be accepted into a degree granting program and have a completed FAFSA, MAFSA or alternative BHCC application
- Meet the July 1 deadline unless funds are no longer available. TFCC funds are first come, first serve.
You will not be eligible if:
- You have an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree
- You are an International student (F1 visa holder)
- You are enrolled in non-credit courses
What costs are covered?
- All tuition and mandatory fees remaining after any other applicable financial aid has been applied.
- $250 each semester for up to three years of college-related expenses (such as books or transportation).
How do I apply?
- Complete an Admission application and be accepted into an Associate’s degree or Certificate program (the Entrepreneur certificate does not qualify).
https://www.bhcc.edu/admissions/applynow/
- Complete a FAFSA or MAFSA
studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
Once your financial aid file is complete, you will be awarded TFCC as part of your financial aid award. The financial aid office will notify you when your award is ready. Log onto https://selfservice.bhcc.edu to view your financial aid award letter
If you are unable to complete the FAFSA or MAFSA application, please complete the BHCC alternative form here:
https://bhcccentral.etrieve.cloud/Index#/form/208
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
No, all Boston residents are eligible regardless of immigration status (excluding International students). If you are a DACA, TPS or undocumented student and would like to be considered for TFCC, please complete this form: https://bhcccentral.etrieve.cloud/#/form/208
Once you have been accepted into an Associate or Certificate degree program, your application for TFCC will be reviewed and you will be notified when your award is ready to view in https://selfservice.bhcc.edu
How many years will TFCC cover?
The program can cover tuition and fees for up to three years.
Does it matter when I take classes during my three years in TFCC?
Once you start receiving TFCC funds, you should aim to take classes every fall and spring semester. If you take a semester off, you can still remain enrolled in TFCC. But remember: You still only get up to 3 years of funding. If you take a semester off, you cannot get that semester of missed funding back. While it is not a requirement for TFCC, you should also try to take at least 10 college credits each semester. This will increase your chances of earning your associate degree within three years. Your academic advisor can help you stay on track.