WORCESTER – Thursday, March 20, 2025 – Worcester Public Schools (WPS) and Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) have announced a groundbreaking partnership ensuring that all WPS graduates, beginning with the Class of 2025, receive guaranteed acceptance to QCC. This initiative was designed to simplify the college admissions process and provide a more direct and stress-free pathway to higher education for Worcester students. Additionally, qualifying students will have the opportunity to attend QCC tuition-free through the state’s MassEducate program, further reducing financial obstacles for families.
"This partnership with QCC is a transformative step in ensuring every scholar has a clear and attainable pathway to success," said Dr. Rachel H. Monárrez, Superintendent of Worcester Public Schools. "By removing barriers to college access, we are empowering our scholars to pursue meaningful futures with an equitable and affordable route to higher education."
According to both institutions, through this collaboration, graduating seniors will have the opportunity to seamlessly transition to QCC, reinforcing both WPS and QCC’s commitment to expanding access to higher education and fostering student success beyond high school.
"This historic partnership between Quinsigamond Community College and Worcester Public Schools marks a transformative moment for our students and our community. Together, with the support of the Commonwealth’s MassEducate program, more students than ever before will have the opportunity to realize their dreams, build brighter futures, and strengthen the workforce of tomorrow,” said QCC President Dr. Luis G. Pedraja, adding that this has been a particularly poignant moment for QCC’s Vice President for Strategic Enrollment & Student Engagement, Michelle Tufau Afriyie who championed this partnership.
Worcester Public Schools currently serves 24,778 students, with an average of 1,894 students expected to graduate this year.
For more information on the application process, financial aid, and academic programs, visit QCC.edu/WPS.
Worcester Public Schools (WPS) serves nearly 25,000 Pre-K through Grade 12 students across nearly 50 schools and programs in New England's second-largest city. With a community-minded approach, WPS fosters engagement across diverse voices and provides a nurturing environment for students who speak over 70 languages. Committed to innovation, technology, and collaboration, WPS prepares its scholars for a future-ready workforce and a vibrant community.
Quinsigamond Community College provides high quality, affordable higher education in Worcester County. As a regional leader in education and workforce development, QCC serves the diverse educational needs of Central Massachusetts by providing affordable, accessible and high-quality programming leading to transfer, career and lifelong learning. Visit www.QCC.edu to learn more.