Early Childhood Educator Scholarship Program
The ECE Scholarship Program was established by the Massachusetts Legislature to increase the credentials and qualifications of the early education and care workforce. The ECE Scholarship is available annually and is a joint initiative between the Department of Higher Education (DHE) Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) and the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC).
The scholarship assists early educators and after school/out of school time professionals in pursuing certificate, associate’s, or bachelor’s degree programs, offered by participating Massachusetts colleges or universities. Scholarship applicants may receive financial assistance up to 11 credits per semester in the fall, spring and summer (subject to funding availability). Eligible applicants for the scholarship must be residents of Massachusetts, matriculated students, working in an EEC-licensed or licensed-exempt program (center based care, outof-school time care, or family child care).
Eligible applicants must work a minimum of 20 hours per week and must have been employed for a minimum of six months, in a program that is licensed or authorized by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care(EEC). For complete details about the ECE Scholarship, or to apply, please visit the following website: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-the-early-childhood-educators-ece-scholarship
The 2025-26 Early Childhood Educators Scholarship (ECE) application is now open!
virtual information sessions about the ECE Scholarship. 2025-2026 ECE Scholarship Application Walk-Through. ECE Scholarship Student Guide
Sign up for an upcoming information session or visit our website to learn more
To learn more about different funding streams for courses and degrees click on this link.
The North Shore Community College Career Pathways grant partnership offers college courses, advising and support to eligible participants for free or at a significantly reduced cost. Each college provides different courses and services, so it is important to know which program and location best meets your needs and goals.
COLLEGE COURSES
North Shore Community College
Check Back in July!
Fall 2025 course information will be available then—stay tuned!
Cursos en Español/Spanish Courses
Vuelvan en Julio para cursos que empiezan en Septiembre 2025
For more information or advising, contact:
Kathy Gallo, M.Ed.
North Shore Community College
Office location – 300 Broad St. LYNN – room E-217
781-593-6722 X6249
Mercedes Villar, M.Ed. (hablo Español)
North Shore Community College
Office location – 300 Broad St. LYNN – room E-219
781-593-6722 X6253
Mvillar@northshore.edu