A new $23 billion education budget plan in Michigan is opening the door for recent high school graduates to attend a community college tuition-free.
The Michigan Achievement Scholarship, Community College Guarantee was signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in July. It’s expected to save more than 18,000 students almost $5,000 each year.
Michelle Richard is with the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential, or MiLEAP, says this new education initiative is a real game changer for every high school student in the state.
“So if you graduated the class of 2024 or the class of 2023, you are still eligible to enroll this fall at your local community college and attend tuition-free,” Richard said.
Students who qualify for the federal Pell Grant can get an extra $1,000 from the state to help with additional college costs like books and supplies.
Richard stressed that if a student wants to start community college this fall, they need to complete the free application for federal student aid on the MiLEAP website.
