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Michigan is launching a program that would offer free community college tuition for eligible residents who are 25 or older.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the program today (2/2), saying the $30 million Michigan Reconnect program will give 4.1 million residents the opportunity to earn an associate's degree or skills certificate free of charge.

"All Michiganders deserve a pathway to a good-paying job, whether they choose to pursue a college degree, technical certificate, or an apprenticeship," Whitmer said Tuesday during a virtual news conference. "Michigan Reconnect will connect thousands of Michiganders to good-paying jobs and connect businesses with the talent they need to thrive in their communities."

To be eligible, Michigan residents must meet the following criteria:

  • Be at least 25 years old
  • Have lived in Michigan for at least one year
  • Have a high school diploma
  • Have not yet completed a college degree (associate or bachelor)

Michigan Reconnect will cover tuition costs for eligible residents at community colleges in their district and at more than 70 private training schools across the state. If you enroll in a school in which you're an out-of-district student, Michigan Reconnect will pay the in-district portion of your tuition.

According to Patch-Lansing, only 41 percent of Michigan's working-age residents have an associate degree or higher.

Michigan Reconnect reports that individuals with a postsecondary degree earn about $7,500 more per year than those without a degree.

Michigan residents can submit an application by clicking this link.

 

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