MA H1459

Establishes the MassGrant program as Massachusetts' primary need-based grant for undergraduate students attending eligible in-state institutions, with awards renewable for up to 5 years of study

Requires students to establish initial eligibility during their sophomore year of high school based on family income, household size, cost of attendance, and other factors determined by the Board of Higher Education

Mandates creation of a digital application system with multilingual instructions, mobile compatibility, 24/7 availability, and live support during business hours, operational within 180 days of passage

Creates an expedited appeals process requiring initial responses within 10 business days and final determinations within 30 calendar days, with students retaining the right to judicial review and recovery of attorney's fees if they prevail

Establishes a Financial Aid Access Commission with representatives from higher education boards, teacher unions, and students to meet quarterly, review program data, and produce annual reports