Scholarship, Career Days Approach in Michigan
Published: Friday, April 17, 2026
This April, communities across Michigan will host events aimed at helping students take the next step toward their future—whether that means enrolling in college for the first time, earning a skill certificate or returning to complete a degree.
As part of Career Exploration and Awareness Month, Michiganders are encouraged to take part in these opportunities to connect with representatives from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential and explore tuition-free and reduced-cost options that support pathways aligned with their goals, interests and the needs of today's workforce.
"Every Michigander deserves a real chance to pursue their goals and build a future they are proud of," said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. "This month is about making sure people know those opportunities are within reach—they are accessible and they are designed to support people at every stage of life.
Whether you are just graduating high school or returning to education years later, there is a pathway forward and people are ready to help you take that next step."
Michigan's state financial aid programs are designed to meet learners where they are—creating clear pathways to degrees, credentials and in-demand careers.
The Michigan Achievement Scholarship is helping thousands of recent graduates take the next step after high school by significantly lowering the cost of college or career training. In the 2024–25 academic year, more than 62,000 students received over $267 million through the program, making college and career training more affordable and accessible for Michigan students across the state.
Through the scholarship, students can receive funding through the following pathways: Students can attend their local community college tuition-free through the Community College Guarantee, regardless of family income. Students who qualify for the federal Pell Grant are also eligible for a $1,000 bonus to help cover other costs of attendance such as books, transportation and housing.
Students can receive up to $27,500—providing up to $5,500 per year for up to five years—to attend a Michigan public or private four-year college or university or enroll in a four-year program at a community college.
Students can receive up to $2,000 per year for up to two years to earn an industry-recognized certificate.
For those continuing or returning to their education later in life, Michigan Reconnect provides another path forward. Reconnect is opening doors for adults 25 and older to return to school and earn a degree or skill certificate tuition-free at their local community college or tribal college. In the 2024–25 academic year, more than 29,700 Michiganders received over $34.9 million through the program, reflecting continued momentum in expanding access to education and career opportunities for adult learners.
Michiganders can learn more about MiLEAP's scholarship programs, including whether they qualify, by visiting Michigan.gov/MiStudentAid.
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