Cost & Aid

IN THIS SECTION

Beyond expectations. Not beyond your means.

At Worcester State, we deliver more than you expect—top-quality academics, experiential learning opportunities, a supportive community, and strong outcomes—without the high cost associated with most colleges and universities. That’s one reason we’re recognized as a Best College, Northeast, by The Princeton Review and as a Massachusetts Best ROI University by Payscale.

Every year, we award over $1 million in merit scholarships and offer substantial financial aid for students who qualify. More than 75% of current students receive some form of financial assistance, and by simply applying to Worcester State, you will automatically be considered for a merit scholarship. 

Eligible students can earn their degree for free with our ValuePlus program. Starting Fall 2025, any admitted Massachusetts undergraduate student whose household income is $75,000 or less can attend Worcester State with $0 in tuition and fees.

Expect more without paying more. Another reason to choose Worcester State.

Undergraduate Tuition & Fees
Applying for Financial Aid
ValuePlus
Dates & Deadlines
March 1
Filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Fall entry priority deadline
All students who wish to be considered for financial aid must file the FAFSA.
Late applications will be considered, though will be subject to the availability of funds.
May 1
Applying for the MASSGrant & for on-time consideration for financial aid for the academic year Fall entry final deadline
November 1
Filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Spring entry deadline
All students who wish to be considered for financial aid must file the FAFSA.
Late applications will be considered, though will be subject to the availability of funds.

By the numbers

A smiling Worcester state student sitting at a table

78%

of students receive financial assistance

Three people sit on the grass, one holding a red binder, deep in discussion. They appear to be students from Worcester State University, perhaps collaborating on a project or study session.

$1M+

in merit scholarships

Worcester state students smiling while listening to a lecture

$10,111

average financial aid award

A smiling Worcester State student standing outside holding their hands

Top 25%

of Best ROI Universities in Massachusetts from Payscale.com

A smiling Worcester state student at the dining hall

The FAFSA

Maximize Your Financial Aid

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your first step toward accessing grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. Completing the FAFSA each year ensures you receive the maximum financial aid available to you. Whether you’re filing for the first time or renewing your application, our team is here to guide you through every step and help you get started with confidence.
File the FAFSA
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ValuePlus

Eligible Students can Earn Their Degree for Free

Worcester State ValuePlus reflects our commitment to making a high-quality college education accessible to every student. Starting Fall 2025, any admitted Massachusetts undergraduate student whose household income is $75,000 or less can attend Worcester State with $0 in tuition and fees.
Discover ValuePlus
A young woman with straight brown hair smiles at the camera, wearing a black WSU Basketball shirt against a plain gray background, reflecting the possibilities that tuition and financial aid at WSU can offer.
“Scholarships have been so impactful for me. Receiving a scholarship has given me peace of mind. It has allowed me to worry less about finances in college and more about my academics. It has also allowed me to feel accomplished as a student.”
— Elizabeth G. '23
A young man with light brown hair and a light gray zip-up shirt smiles while sitting indoors, possibly discussing tuition and financial aid, with another person blurred in the foreground.
“For me, it was important to have a great educational program on top of value. I was between two schools. If I went to the other school I would have come out with $125K in debt. At Worcester State, I came out with $25K. Night and day.”
— Paul M. '25

Financial Aid FAQs

Six graduates in caps and gowns celebrate on stage with diplomas at Worcester State University's ceremony, a proud moment made possible for many through tuition support and financial aid, with the university banner displayed in the background.

Worcester State in Top 10 for graduate earnings among all Massachusetts public universities

Worcester State University graduates have among the highest average earnings of all Massachusetts public colleges and universities five years after graduation, according to new data released by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education. Even more impressively, Worcester State graduates leave with the lowest college debt among Massachusetts public colleges and universities, making Worcester State the best value for high-quality, affordable education.
Read the story