For many students, tuition and fees are covered or nearly covered by federal and state aid. However, coverage gaps remain for certain populations and Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) students face financial barriers beyond tuition and fees to attending and completing college. 

Beyond Tuition and Fees

The cost of attending community college includes much more than just tuition and fees. Students must also pay for textbooks, supplies, housing, utilities, food, transportation, technology, childcare, and other expenses. These costs can be substantial and create significant financial barriers for QCC students.

42%
of QCC students receive no financial support from parents, guardians, or family.
70%
of the cost of attendance is NOT covered by free community college programs like Mass Educate and Mass Reconnect
81%
of QCC graduates live and work in central Massachusetts
Nursing Graduate
A tremendous amount of time and attention is required to succeed in the nursing program, leaving little time to work. Receiving a scholarship lessens my financial burden. I will work diligently so that I may give back to others as kindly as you have done for me.
Kristin D.
QCC Scholarship Recipient
A student watches a computer screen while a group of diverse students chat in a zoom meeting

Essential Supports for Success

Many QCC students face insecurities related to housing, transportation, food, and childcare. Without financial support to address these essential needs, students struggle to focus on their studies, leading to lower academic performance and higher dropout rates.

  • 33% of QCC students share a laptop with someone else.
  • 31% of QCC students have children living with them (their own or a family member).
A female student looks up from the book she is reading at a desk in QCC’s Alden Library

Impact on Education Quality

Access to resources like textbooks, technology, and tutoring, directly impact the quality of education students receive. Without financial support to cover these costs, students may be unable to fully participate in their coursework, hindering their academic success.

  • One in four QCC student starts the semester at a disadvantage because they cannot afford textbooks, limiting their ability to success from the start.
  • 30% of students list transportation problems as top reason for missing classes or assignments.
A student wears safety goggles in an apprenticeship enviroment

Strengthening the Workforce

By helping students complete their education, we ensure they acquire the skills and knowledge needed to fill vital roles in our local workforce. This strengthens the economy, enhances productivity, and promotes overall economic growth across the region.

  • 1,000+ students complete a QCC degree or certificate annually, ready to enter the workforce or continue their education and then enter the workforce.
  • 81% of QCC graduates live and work in central Massachusetts.
A woman stands next to shelves in the food pantry

Building a Stronger Community

Supporting QCC students and programs strengthens the entire community. Educated individuals are more likely to give back, promote positive change, and drive economic growth.  For every dollar invested …

  • Society gains $7 in added income and social savings
  • Students gain $5 in lifetime earnings, and
  • Taxpayers gain $1 in added tax revenue and public sector savings.

Coverage Gaps Exist

MassEducate and MassReconnect are fantastic programs that provide funding for tuition and fees only, to those who qualify. These programs do not cover every student or every expense. 

Strains on College Facilities and Services

Increased enrollment puts a strain on classrooms, faculty, and student services like advising, tutoring, career services, etc. To continue offering the exceptional education students deserve, we must meet demands with exceptional learning spaces, outstanding faculty, and valuable student support services.

Investing in the Future

Education is a powerful tool for social and economic mobility, and by providing comprehensive financial support we unlock opportunities for students who might otherwise be left behind.  It's critical to address these gaps to ensure every student has an opportunity to succeed.

Make a Difference

Your support helps bridge the financial gaps that tuition assistance programs don’t cover. Donate today to ensure every QCC student has the resources they need to succeed.  

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