View of students walking on campus with Old Chapel in the background
Priorities

We will revolutionize access to higher education.

Revolutionizing access means giving each student opportunity and support, equipping them to navigate abundant career options when they graduate, and watching the incredible return on that investment of time and talent. Access underpins the entire UMass experience.

Excellence is only possible through access

Access is more than admission. UMass Amherst is committed to reducing the obstacles that prevent students from making the most of learning opportunities. Your support ensures every individual is able to rise as far as their ambition will take them.

Gabrielle Walczak standing in front of Whitehouse
Spotlight: Undergraduate Scholarships

The Gift of Opportunity

Students from middle- and low-income families have more financial need than UMass Amherst can meet. When donors support scholarships across the university they open doors to meaningful experiences for the leaders of tomorrow.

Initiatives for student access and support

Scholarships and fellowships

Undergraduate scholarships and graduate student fellowships enable students to choose UMass Amherst and pursue their passions. Our goal is to expand the number and size of scholarships and fellowships university-wide.

Mentoring and professional development

Peer coaching, mentoring, and career advising helps students find their strengths and build their networks. We strive to establish programs that deepen student engagement and promote personal agency.

Wellness programs and health promotion

UMass Amherst has a holistic vision for student health. As a Health Promoting University, we embrace physical, mental, spiritual, and social well-being. Our goal is to inspire students to strengthen our campus culture and surrounding communities.

Internships, research, and study abroad experiences

Paid internships, study abroad, and research opportunities demystify life after college. We will expand access to these experiences to create a pool of diverse and well-prepared young professionals.

Textbooks and learning materials

The cost of textbooks is a massive challenge for students once they enroll. Our acclaimed Open Education Initiative provides alternatives to high-cost textbooks. It's saved students $2.3 million over the past 12 years.

“Financial aid has empowered me to make the most of my college experience, from excelling academically to gaining real-world experience through internships.”

Abbey Berry ’25
Isenberg School of Management
Abbey Berry headshot
UMass Student at a job site for Habitat for Humanity
Spotlight: Co-Curricular Activities

Opportunities Unlocked

Experiences outside the classroom help students develop their professional skills, sense of purpose in the world, and connections to a wider community. Crowdfunding through the MinuteFund online platform enables students from a variety of groups to participate in national competitions, service projects, and networking opportunities.