How to start college early! Take college courses and earn both high school and college credits through Dual Enrollment.
A: No. Traditional Dual Enrollment students are responsible for paying the standard MassBay tuition and fees before the start of each semester and must follow the College's regular payment policies and deadlines.
Payment plans are available if needed. MassBay partners with Nelnet Campus Commerce to offer a tuition payment plan that allows families to pay tuition in smaller installments. No loans, debt, interest charges, or credit checks are required. A non-refundable enrollment fee of $32 per semester applies. More information: https://www.massbay.edu/admissions/paying-for-college/payment-plan.
A: No. Textbooks and course materials are not included in tuition and fees and must be purchased separately.
A: Students should consult with their high school guidance counselor to determine an appropriate course load and confirm which courses will count toward both high school graduation requirements and college credit.
A: Many colleges accept transfer credits from MassBay Community College, but policies vary by institution.
A: Yes. Dual enrollment courses become part of the student's official MassBay college transcript.
A: Grades and withdrawals will appear on the student's college transcript. Students should be aware of the college's academic calendar, especially add/drop and withdrawal dates. Students should seek support early from faculty if concerns arise.
A: Courses may be offered on a MassBay campus (Wellesley, Framingham, or Ashland), online, or in a hybrid format. Online and hybrid courses are delivered through Blackboard Learn™, where students may complete assignments, participate in discussion boards, watch and create videos, listen to podcasts, take quizzes or exams, and submit projects.
Students should be aware that online courses often require a significant commitment to time management, organization, and active participation. Success in an online learning environment depends on staying engaged, meeting deadlines, and seeking academic support when needed.
Students should review the course schedule and format carefully before registering to ensure the course fits their schedule and learning preferences.
A: College courses require a significant amount of independent work outside of class. A general rule is that students should plan to spend 2-3 hours per week studying, reading, and completing assignments for every 1 credit hour they take. For example, a 3-credit course typically requires 6-9 hours of work outside of class each week, in addition to scheduled class time.
A: While students are encouraged to contact their professor first with course-related questions or concerns, MassBay offers a variety of resources to support student success. Students have access to tutoring, library services, academic support, and technology resources. We encourage students to take advantage of these services throughout their college experience.
In addition, MassBay provides equal access to students with disabilities who self-disclose and request accommodations through the Accessibility Resources Center.
Academic Achievement Center | Massachusetts Bay Community College
Accessibility Resources Center | Massachusetts Bay Community College
A: Because of FERPA, which protects students educational records, instructors communicate directly with students rather than parents about academic performance.