05/12/2011
By
By Jennifer Myers, Lowell SunLOWELL -- Starting this fall, community-college students who earn an associate's degree while achieving a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher will be able to attend UMass Lowell tuition-free.
Chancellor Marty Meehan announced creation of the UMass Lowell Massachusetts Advantage Plus program Tuesday afternoon at a reception for community college partners. UMass Amherst and Gov. Deval Patrick announced a similar program earlier this year.
Transfer students must maintain a 3.0 GPA at the university to retain the discount, which is good for four semesters, the length of time it takes a typical student to complete a bachelor's degree.
The discount saves $1,454, the cost of in-state tuition at the university. In-state students remain responsible for annual fees totaling $9,052 and room and board charges of about $9,000. Out-of state students pay an additional $7,113 in tuition, $14,378 in fees and $9,000 for room and board.
Students in the MAP program also will be eligible for priority class registration and advising; co-op and internship opportunities; scholarships for high achievers of up to $2,500 per year; and guaranteed campus housing.