Massachusetts School Choice
Massachusetts does not offer state-funded programs such as vouchers or Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) for private schooling. However, families have various public school choice options—including 70+ charter schools serving approximately 43,000 students, inter-district open enrollment allowing students to attend public schools outside their home district, Commonwealth Virtual Schools (TECCA and GCVS), 40+ vocational-technical schools, the METCO program for Boston and Springfield students, and magnet programs. All public school choice options are completely tuition-free. Massachusetts has not pursued universal private school funding through vouchers or tax-credit scholarships. Private school tuition averages $24,891/year (primary) and $40,968/year (secondary), though families may use federal tax-advantaged savings accounts (529 plans, Coverdell ESAs) or pursue private scholarships to offset costs.
In-district and Inter-District School Choice
Massachusetts offers inter-district school choice and in-district transfers which allow families to transfer from their current public school to another. In-district transfers are managed by your local district so you should refer to your local district’s website for specific information and their policies on how to apply for these transfers. Inter-district transfers allow families to enroll their children in public schools located outside their home district. Generally, transfer requests are granted based on the availability of seats at the requested school once enrollment projections are finalized and may be subject to other school/district policies.
Charter Schools
Massachusetts charter schools are public schools, tuition-free, and open to all students across the state. They operate under five-year state “charters” that grant them greater flexibility in curriculum, staffing, and school culture compared to traditional district schools. There are currently 70+ Massachusetts charter schools serving approximately 43,000 students statewide. Charter schools are open to all Massachusetts students regardless of where the student lives.
Public Virtual Schools
Massachusetts operates two tuition-free pubic virtual schools offering full-time online education for Massachusetts students in grades K-12: Greater Commonwealth Virtual School and TEC Connections Academy. Classes are taught by licensed teachers, and students must meet the same academic standards as in-person public schools.
Career and Technical Education Programs
Massachusetts currently has over 40 career and-technical education (CTE) programs serving high school students (grades 9-12). These programs offer hands-on career training combined with academic coursework. Students earn both a high school diploma and a career credential in fields such as healthcare, automotive technology, construction, culinary arts, cosmetology, information technology, graphic design and more.
METCO Program
The Massachusetts Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity (METCO) Program is a grant program intended to expand educational opportunities for students in urban and suburban communities. It is open to students residing in Boston or Springfield who wish to attend suburban public schools.
Homeschooling
Homeschooling in Massachusetts is legal and recognized as private education for school age children. Parents must submit an intent to homeschool and educational plan for approval to their local school district before beginning. Under Massachusetts law, homeschooled students also have a right to special education services, if desired by the family.
Choosing the Right Program for Your Family
Massachusetts offers robust public school choice options, though all state-funded programs are limited to public schools. Here’s guidance based on different family situations:
For Families Seeking Private School Tuition Assistance
Reality Check: Massachusetts does NOT offer state funding for private schools. Options: (1) Research private school financial aid directly from schools – most schools offer need-based and merit-based aid; (2) Catholic Schools Foundation if interested in Catholic schools – provides need-based scholarships; (3) 529 Plans – Use tax-advantaged savings ($10,000/year for K-12 tuition in 2025, increasing to $20,000/year in 2026); (4) Coverdell ESAs – Contribute up to $2,000/year for broader K-12 expenses. Average private school tuition: $24,891/year (primary), $40,968/year (secondary), though many families pay 60-80% after financial aid.
For Families Wanting a Different Public School
Best Options: (1) Charter Schools – 74+ schools statewide, completely free, open to all Massachusetts residents regardless of where you live. Strong academic performance. Apply year-round; lottery-based admission. (2) Inter-District School Choice – Attend public schools in other districts if they participate. Free; lottery-based. Transportation may be family’s responsibility. Apply in spring (May/June deadlines). (3) Intra-District Choice – Some districts offer magnet programs or allow transfers within the district. Contact your school district.
For Families Interested in Career Preparation
Best Option: Vocational-Technical High Schools – 29+ schools offering hands-on career training plus academics. Students graduate with both a high school diploma and career credential. Free. Apply through your school district (October-March application window). Fields include healthcare, construction, automotive, culinary, IT, engineering, and more. Many graduates attend college.
For Boston or Springfield Families Seeking Suburban Schools
Best Option: METCO Program – Connects Boston and Springfield students with 38 metro Boston districts and 4 Springfield-area districts. Free with free transportation provided. Approximately 3,300 students participate. Contact your school’s guidance office or METCO directly.
For Families Seeking Home-Based Learning
Options: (1) Commonwealth Virtual Schools (TECCA or GCVS) – Free, full-time online K-12 public schools with licensed teachers. Requires parental support; not for independent learners. Capacity-capped; may have waitlists. (2) Homeschooling – Complete curriculum autonomy but requires district approval and parent-led instruction. No state funding; families pay all costs. Must cover 13 required subjects and provide progress assessments to district.
For Families with Income Constraints
Best Options: ALL public options are completely free: (1) Charter schools, (2) Inter-district school choice, (3) Commonwealth Virtual Schools, (4) Vocational-technical schools, (5) METCO (if in Boston/Springfield), (6) Traditional public schools. For private schools: Apply for financial aid directly from schools; most offer need-based aid. Catholic Schools Foundation provides scholarships. Use 529 plans or Coverdell ESAs for tax benefits if saving in advance.
For Families with Students with Special Needs
Best Options: All public schools (charter, inter-district, virtual, vocational, traditional) must comply with IDEA and provide IEP services. Students with disabilities are entitled to the same services and protections. Consider whether virtual learning or vocational programs are appropriate for your child’s specific needs. Private schools have different requirements than public schools – verify the school can meet your child’s needs before enrolling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Massachusetts have Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) or vouchers?
No. Massachusetts does not offer state-funded ESAs, vouchers, or tax-credit scholarships for private school tuition. All state-funded school choice options are public schools (charter, inter-district, virtual, vocational).
Do I need to live in a school district to attend a charter school there?
No. Charter schools are open to all Massachusetts residents regardless of where you live. You do not need to live in the school’s district to apply.
How much does charter school cost?
Charter schools are completely free. There is no tuition. They are public schools.
What if my child doesn’t get into the charter school we want?
Most charter schools place applicants on a waitlist. Spaces may open during summer if students decline offers. You can also apply to multiple charter schools to increase your chances.
Can my child attend both charter school and take classes at our home district school?
No. If your child attends a charter school, they must fully withdraw from their home district school.
Is inter-district school choice available in my town?
This is a voluntary program. Your home district and the receiving district both decide whether to participate. Contact the school district you wish to attend to confirm they accept school choice students.
How much does private school cost on average?
Average private school tuition is $24,891/year for elementary and $40,968/year for secondary in Massachusetts. However, many families pay 60-80% of this after financial aid and scholarships from schools.
Can I use my 529 plan to pay for private school tuition?
Yes. As of 2025, families can withdraw up to $10,000/year from a 529 plan for K-12 private school tuition (increasing to $20,000/year in 2026). Starting in 2026, additional K-12 expenses like curriculum and tutoring may also qualify.
What is a Coverdell ESA and can I use it for private school?
A Coverdell Education Savings Account is a federal tax-advantaged savings vehicle. Families can contribute up to $2,000/year per child. Money can be used for a broader range of K-12 expenses, including tuition, books, curriculum, and tutoring. Income limits apply for contributions.
What is the METCO program and who is eligible?
METCO allows Boston and Springfield students to attend suburban public schools. The program is free and provides free transportation. Approximately 3,300 students participate across 38 metro Boston districts and 4 Springfield-area districts.
Do vocational-technical schools only prepare students for trades?
No. Vocational-technical high schools award a standard high school diploma alongside a career credential. Students complete academic classes (math, English, science, social studies) plus hands-on vocational training. Many graduates go on to college.
Can I homeschool my child in Massachusetts?
Yes, with school district approval. You must submit a Notice of Intent and Educational Plan to your school district before beginning. The district reviews and approves your plan. Homeschooling is legal and recognized as private education, but no state funding is available.
What subjects must I teach if I homeschool in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires instruction in reading, writing, English, grammar, geography, math, science, art, music, history, social studies, physical education, and technology. You design the curriculum but must cover these 13 subject areas.
Are there virtual school options in Massachusetts?
Yes. Two Commonwealth Virtual Schools (TECCA and GCVS) serve grades K-12. They are free public schools. Enrollment is rolling; lottery is used if capacity is reached. Capacity is limited to approximately 2% of statewide enrollment.
How do I find information about school choice programs in my area?
Start with your school district’s website and guidance office. Also visit the Massachusetts DESE website at doe.mass.edu/finance/schoolchoice/ for state-level guidance and resources.
Can I get state funding to help pay for private school?
No. Massachusetts does not provide state funding for private school tuition. You must pay tuition yourself through savings, apply for financial aid directly from private schools, seek private scholarships (such as Catholic Schools Foundation), or use federal tax-advantaged accounts like 529 plans or Coverdell ESAs.