Massachusetts will offer tuition rebates to full-time, qualifying students who begin their studies at a community college and go on to earn a bachelor's degree at a state university.

Republican Gov. Charlie Baker and state higher educational officials unveiled what they called a first-in-the-nation program, dubbed Commonwealth Commitment, on Thursday. The program for state residents is to be phased in over the next two academic years.

Students from any of the state's 15 community colleges who enroll in one of two dozen fields of study would receive a 10 percent rebate on tuition and fees each semester, provided they maintained a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

To continue in the program, students must earn an associate degree from the community college in 2 1/2 years or less, and complete their bachelor's degree at any state university within 4 1/2 years total. (Associated Press)

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