The Massachusetts Paraprofessional Teacher Preparation Grant Program provides financial assistance to those who are currently employed as paraprofessionals in Massachusetts public schools, but wish to become certified as full-time teachers. This grant is designed to reduce their financial burden and help address the Commonwealth's current teacher shortage. Financial need is not a requirement for the Paraprofessional Teacher Preparation Grant. However, recipients must annually file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To be eligible for the grant, a student must physically reside in Massachusetts for at least one year, as of the start of the enrolled term, with an intent to remain in Massachusetts consistent with Board of Higher Education policy. They must not be in default of any federal or state Student Loans for attendance at any institution or owe a refund for any previous financial aid received. A student must not have received a prior bachelor's degree or its equivalent. They must enroll in a program leading to teacher certification in a Massachusetts Public or Private college or university. The student must also be employed, for a minimum of two years, as a paraprofessional in a Massachusetts public school. If employed less than two years as a paraprofessional, a student may qualify for the grant only if the undergraduate course of study will lead to teacher certification in high-need disciplines: Math, Science, Special Education, Foreign Languages, or Bilingual Education. The 2025-2026 Paraprofessional Grant application is now open. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Massachusetts Office of Student Financial Assistance for more information.