Michigan Introduces Tuition-Free Community College Guarantee

Michigan Introduces Tuition-Free ‘Community College Guarantee’

Good news for recent high school graduates in Michigan! A new policy known as the ‘Community College Guarantee‘ has been introduced to the School Aid Budget. Starting this fall, you might just qualify for tuition-free community college.

The wonderful part of this guarantee is that it covers not just tuition, but also other academic fees for a degree program or skills certificate from an in-district community college or tribal college. What’s more, it also permits a $1,000 Michigan Achievement Bonus award for Pell Grant-eligible students, which can cover additional expenses.

Here are the requirements to avail this offer:

• Must be a Michigan high school graduate from 2023 and onward.
• Completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• Must have been a Michigan resident since July 1 of the previous year.
• Must hold U.S. citizenship, permanent residency or approved refugee status.
• Must enroll in college full-time within 15 months of graduation.

Confused about the ‘in-district’ term? It refers to students whose homes fall within the local service area of a specific community college. If you live outside the designated service area of the college you want to attend, you will be considered an ‘out-of-district’ student.

If ‘out-of-district’ seems to apply to you, don’t worry! You can still qualify for the guarantee. However, the scholarship and fees will be equal to those for an “in-district” student. Any additional fees will need to be covered by the student.

Here’s a lifesaver: Always remember to select your ‘in-district’ community college as your top choice on the FAFSA form.

This fantastic initiative was proposed in the 2024 State of the State address and has now become a reality. The Community College Guarantee is taxpayer-funded through the School Aid Budget and is expected to save more than 18,000 students up to $4,800 a year.

What’s every better? The scholarship can be renewed by eligible students for up to three years at a community college or tribal college.

So, if you are stepping into college after 2023, this guarantee is definitely one to keep an eye on. It’s a golden chance not just to pursue higher education without heavy financial burdens but also to acquire the necessary skills for a secure future. Enjoy this opportunity and make the most out of it!