In August, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey (D) announced the launch of MassReconnect, a program for students over age 25 who have lived in the state for at least a year, and who don't already have a college degree.

State officials expect as many as 8,000 students could enroll through MassReconnect in the spring and fall semesters.

Healy said in a news release that MassReconnect " will bolster the role of community colleges as economic drivers in our state and help us better meet the needs of businesses to find qualified, well-trained workers. We can also make progress in breaking cycles of intergenerational poverty by helping residents complete their higher education credentials, so they can attain good jobs and build a career path,"

The program is open to residents who have accumulated some college credits, but not enough for a degree. MassReconnect also covers costs like books and class-related fees. State officials plan to expand the program to more residents in the coming years.