FY2027: Transition to College
Funds Massachusetts colleges to help adult learners transition from adult learning centers or correctional institutions into college through integrated academic and support services.
Funder: Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Questions deadline) | June 2027 (Full proposal deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $140,000 (one cohort) or $162,000–$175,000 (two cohorts); optional support services up to $50,000; total program funding approx. $3.5M.
Summary: Supports Massachusetts colleges in helping adult learners transition into and succeed in postsecondary education through integrated academic and support services.
Key Information: Only Massachusetts colleges are eligible; partnerships with adult learning centers or correctional institutions required.
Description
This grant program, administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), funds Massachusetts colleges to provide comprehensive, no-cost services to adult learners transitioning from Community Adult Learning Centers (CALCs) or Correctional Institutions into postsecondary education. The program seeks to promote self-sufficiency for adult learners by supporting their enrollment, persistence, and completion of college credentials. Grantees must establish partnerships with at least two DESE-funded CALCs or Correctional Institutions, enroll cohorts of adult students, integrate them into the college community, deliver academic instruction and intensive advising, and offer credit-bearing courses. Optional support services may be proposed for students beyond their first academic year to further foster independence and continued academic progress.
