Michigan will provide its recent high school graduates with free community college tuition. Earlier in this work, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a budget plan for education. According to the administration, starting in the fall, the state will be able to cover the tuition fees for skilled certificates and associate’s degrees.
Whitmer stated, “In Michigan, we want every single person to be able to get onto the path that is best for them.”
According to the Whitmer administration, the free community college program will benefit more than 18,000 students financially, with savings over about $4800 a year per student.
Michigan is one of the many states that offer free community college. To be eligible for Michigan’s program, a student must apply for federal student aid and enroll full-time in college. The program is not based on a student’s household income.
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A tuition-free community-based college version is available in more than 30 states. Debt-free higher education is an option for those wanting to pursue a higher-skilled trade, earn certificates, or begin further studies.
According to BestColleges, states other than Michigan recently instituted free college: Minnesota, Colorado, and New Hampshire. Programs in Michigan, Minnesota, and New Hampshire will take effect this September, while Colorado will start its programs in 2025.
A common term for community programs is “promise programs.” Even while the programs drastically cut costs, they often do not cover other expenses like meals, book fees, transportation, and room and board.
Each state has different eligibility requirements for these programs. Those who meet the requirements often have to enroll full-time and graduate from an in-state high school. According to Bankrate, additional requirements can be based on financial need or academic performance.
According to Michigan state officials, funding for the state’s Michigan Achievement Scholarship would enable all recent high school graduates to enroll in a community college and earn a free associate’s degree or skilled certificate. In contrast to other states, Michigan claims that most students are eligible for its community college guarantee program.
