Michiganders ages 21-24 have until December 31, 2024, to apply for Michigan Reconnect, offering tuition-free degrees and skills certificates.
Last Chance for Young Adults to Earn Tuition-Free Education
LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) is urging Michiganders aged 21 to 24 to apply for Michigan Reconnect, a program that offers tuition-free associate degrees and skills certificates at community and Tribal colleges. This limited-time eligibility expansion ends on December 31, 2024, marking the deadline for applications from this age group.
“This is a pivotal moment for Michiganders to invest in their future, gain valuable skills, and unlock new career prospects,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “With over 30,000 applicants already accepted through this temporary expansion, we want more young adults to seize this life-changing opportunity.”
Temporary Age Expansion Closes Soon
Michigan Reconnect, launched to support adults 25 and older, temporarily lowered its eligibility age to 21 last year. The program covers full tuition costs for in-district students and partial tuition for out-of-district students attending Michigan’s community or Tribal colleges. Applicants must apply, secure enrollment, and begin coursework no later than summer 2025 to qualify.
The scholarship is designed to improve career opportunities and fill critical workforce gaps in Michigan, with strong participation expected in its final days of this temporary eligibility window.
Support System Offers Personalized Guidance
Participants benefit from Michigan Reconnect Navigators, a dedicated team providing step-by-step assistance throughout the college process. Services include:
- Guidance with federal student aid applications.
- Help selecting programs and registering for classes.
- Ongoing support to ensure graduation.
The Navigator team also offers online drop-in hours every Tuesday (12-2 p.m.) and Thursday (5-7 p.m.), providing one-on-one help with applications and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Program Changing Lives Across the State
The program has already transformed the lives of thousands of Michiganders:
- Valerie Gilbert, a student at Macomb Community College, shared, “Going to college has always been a big goal of mine. Thanks to Michigan Reconnect, I’m pursuing my dream career sooner than expected.”
- Jeremy Horton, a Grand Rapids Community College student, added, “Applying was fast and simple. I’ve just finished my first semester, and it’s been the most fulfilling thing I’ve done in years.”
How to Apply Before the Deadline
Eligible Michiganders aged 21-24 can apply for Michigan Reconnect by completing these steps:
- Apply for the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship at Michigan.gov/Reconnect by December 31, 2024.
- Apply to a Michigan community or Tribal college.
- File a FAFSA form.
- Enroll in a program of study and begin coursework no later than summer 2025.
Students already enrolled in a community college should also apply for the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship and contact their college’s Financial Aid Office for guidance on applying the scholarship to their tuition.
Opportunity Continues for Older Adults
While the temporary age expansion ends this year, Michiganders 25 and older will remain eligible for Michigan Reconnect. The program represents Michigan’s largest effort to close the educational attainment gap and provide adults with opportunities for career advancement.
For more information, visit Michigan.gov/Reconnect.
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