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Applying for financial aid?

Learn the steps to complete the FAFSA

Applying for financial aid?

Learn the steps to complete the FAFSA

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Trainings Available for Multiple Audiences

School Counselors

Take part in our lessons to learn key information about college planning topics and earn PDPs.
View Lessons →

College Administrators

Take part in our trainings to learn key information about MEFA resources and products and get helpful updates on a variety of college planning topics.
View Trainings →

Affiliate Organizations

Participate in our trainings to learn information about MEFA resources and products and get helpful updates on a variety of topics.
View Trainings →

Why Educators Love The MEFA Institute


The College Cost Calculator is very easy to use and will help them to make more informed decisions about college and the cost. I have already shared the College Cost Calculator with students, and I feel I have more knowledge to effectively support students and parents.

Attendee
Helping Students Understand Financial Aid Offers and Paying the College Bill

I will be able to better assist families who are struggling with the financial aid process. I have a much better understanding of how to apply and how financial aid packages are created.

Attendee
Financial Aid 101

This training provided great insight into a college's approach to accessibility and students need to have this information when considering post-secondary options. This lesson provides great examples of campus resources to consider such as academic coaches, tutoring centers, and other support programs to be sought out/referred to.

Attendee
Preparing High School Students with Disabilities for College Success

This video was excellent. I appreciated the step-by-step guide and explanation of typical questions families might have regarding filling out the FAFSA. I have a better understanding of the form and process and will have greater confidence helping students and their families with any questions they might have.

Attendee
A Deep Dive Into the FAFSA

What Does The MEFA Institute Offer?

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Expert Guidance

Trainings are given by industry leaders, both from within MEFA and from colleges and organizations across Massachusetts.
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Variety of Topics

Choose the topics that interest you for a customized learning experience.
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Remote Learning

All aspects are delivered virtually and all resources are digital.

The MEFA Institute FAQs

What is the MEFA Institute?

The MEFA Institute offers a series of free professional development opportunities geared toward school counselors, college access professionals, and college administrators focused on planning, saving, and paying for college and reaching financial goals. Participants may attend webinars, read blog posts, and view videos within the curriculum, on their own schedule, to gain knowledge on numerous college planning topics and earn PDPs.

Who is MEFA?

MEFA is an authority on planning, saving, and paying for college and reaching financial goals. The Massachusetts state legislature created MEFA in 1982 at the request of colleges and universities across the Commonwealth. MEFA helps students and families access and afford higher education and reach financial goals through education programs, tax-advantaged savings plans, low-cost loans, and expert guidance. All of MEFA's work aligns with the ever-present goal to support the independence, growth, and success of students and families.

What are PDPs?

Professional Development Points (PDPs) are a unit of measurement of professional development activities. One hour is equivalent to one PDP. Educators often need to have a certain number of PDPs to obtain or renew their license.

PDPs are managed by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). MEFA is certified by DESE as a registered provider of PDP's. All MEFA offerings, including live and recorded webinars, onsite trainings, and professional conference seminars, are aligned with MASCA's MA Model and MA Career Development Education (CDE) benchmarks.

How do I earn PDPs?

Participants can earn PDPs by completing MEFA Institute lessons and submitting a PDP Evidence of Learning Form. To earn PDPs:

  1. Visit the School Counselor section of the MEFA Institute
  2. Select a lesson of choice via one of the drop-downs under Planning, Saving, or Paying
  3. Complete the lesson deliverables, including watching the webinar
  4. Fill in and submit the MEFA Institute PDP Evidence of Learning Form
When will I receive my PDPs?

Upon completing 10 hours of PDPs, participants will be emailed a Certificate of Completion from MEFA.

What if I am unable to attend live webinar?

All webinars are recorded and posted to the MEFA Institute once complete. If you can't attend the live webinar, you can watch the recording anytime.

Can I share these lessons with my students and families?

MEFA provides webinars on similar topics specifically geared towards students and families. You can direct students and families to register for upcoming family webinars or to view our recorded family webinars.

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