This program is not currently funded.

The Performance Bonus Grant Program was created to acknowledge and reward the success of the Commonwealth's neediest students towards graduation. The Grant is funded by appropriations from the Massachusetts State Legislature. The Performance Bonus Grant provides a financial incentive for students to perform well in college and persist toward the achievement of a postsecondary education degree or credential.

To be eligible for a Performance Bonus Grant, a student must:

• Be enrolled full-time in an associate or bachelor's degree program at a state-approved public or private post-secondary school in Massachusetts.
• Be a MASSGrant recipient.
• Not have received a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
• Be a permanent Massachusetts resident for at least one year.
• Be a United States Citizen or eligible noncitizen.
• Have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of zero.
• Have completed at least 24 college credits beyone high school.
• Have a cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.0 or higher.
• Be eligible for Title IV funds and not in default of any Federal or State loan, or owe a refund on any previously received financial aid.

Award amount varies according to the type of institution the student attends.

• $500 per academic year awarded if enrolled in a degree program at a 4 year school.
• $350 per academic year awarded if enrolled in a degree program at a 2 year school.

Awards are disbursed in two equal payments.

Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to the Federal Central Processor. The Federal Processor must receive the FAFSA by May 1st, in order for the student to meet the MASSGrant application priority deadline date. You can obtain a FAFSA from a high school guidance office, the local library, your college's Financial Aid Office or you can call the Massachusetts Office of Student Financial Assistance at (617) 391-6070 to request a copy. You can also file your FAFSA electronically.