Students and Families are Encouraged to Explore Opportunities for Financial Support Through the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, Community College Guarantee

LANSING, Mich. – As part of an ongoing recognition of College Scholarship Month, the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential is celebrating the transformative impact of the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, a groundbreaking initiative to lower the cost of college for high school graduates beginning with the class of 2023.

"The Michigan Achievement Scholarship has become a beacon of hope for students and families all across our state,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “By enhancing access to education beyond high school, we are not only empowering our youth but also contributing to a thriving Michigan. This initiative is a vital part of our mission at MiLEAP to achieve the state’s Sixty by 30 goal and help more Michiganders acquire the skills and credentials they need to excel in today’s workforce and the workforce of the future.”

The Michigan Achievement Scholarship supports students no matter their path after high school.

For students pursuing a bachelor’s degree, the scholarship offers up to $27,500 over five years to attend a Michigan public university, private college or university, or to enroll in a bachelor’s degree program at a Michigan community college. To qualify, students must graduate from a Michigan high school or achieve a high school equivalency certificate and demonstrate financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with a Student Aid Index of 30,000 or less. Seven in 10 Michigan high school graduates are eligible for this support, and over 28,800 students benefited in the program's first year.

For students pursuing a skill certificate at an eligible training provider, the Michigan Achievement Skills Scholarship provides graduating high school students with up to $4,000 over two years.

For students pursuing a skill certificate, associate degree, or preparing to transfer, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship was expanded to include the Community College Guarantee, enabling high school graduates from the class of 2023 and beyond to earn an associate degree or skill certificate at their local community college or Tribal college tuition-free. This initiative represents a significant investment in students, saving them an estimated $4,800 annually – regardless of income – while also covering most tuition costs for students attending out-of-district schools. Students who qualify for the federal Pell Grant also receive a $1,000 bonus to assist with living expenses such as books, transportation and rent.

“The Michigan Achievement Scholarship, including the Skills Scholarship and the Community College Guarantee, underscores our state’s commitment to supporting students on every educational path,” said Michelle Richard, deputy director of Higher Education at MiLEAP.  “We want every student to be confident there is an affordable pathway to a good paying job available, whether they are pursuing a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree, or a skill certificate. These scholarships are truly designed to lower costs and help more people continue their education—and ultimately build their careers — right here in Michigan.”

“I am proud to witness firsthand the transformative impact that these scholarship programs have on our students and their families,” said Dr. Nerita Hughes, president of Bay College. “These initiatives open doors to post-secondary education, making it more accessible and affordable for everyone across our state. At Bay College, we encourage students and families to explore these incredible opportunities – their future is worth the investment, and we have been there to support each student every step of the way.”

“As a single mother, finding a way to cover college costs for my son was a significant concern. When my son and I received his financial award for his freshman year, I was astounded by the impact the Michigan Achievement Scholarship had on our ability to afford college. The scholarship has truly made a difference in our lives,” said Stephanie Mullenix of Jenison, Mich.  “I am deeply grateful to Governor Whitmer and her administration for their commitment to keeping college affordable for hardworking Michiganders. Their support means the world to families like mine, and I hope my story can inspire other parents and students who are considering post-secondary education.”

Throughout College Scholarship Month, MiLEAP encourages Michiganders to explore the financial resources available to support their educational pursuits. To learn more about the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and other MILEAP scholarship programs, visit  Michigan.gov/MiStudentAid.

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