Futures for Frontliners | Mid Michigan College

You put your own health at risk during the worst of the pandemic while the rest of us stayed safe at home. That’s why Michigan, under Governor Whitmer’s leadership, created Futures for Frontliners – to offer essential workers like you the opportunity to attend school tuition-free full-time or part-time while you continue to work.

Get started!

You're ready, don't delay your future. Mid is offering a wide-array of courses and many of our programs and credentials can largely be completed online. And with several delivery methods, Mid's courses provide you with an engaging, dynamic learning experience using the latest technology and resources.

Connect with us remotely!

For help with financial aid, academic advising, registration, and online learning you can now meet with us on-campus or remotely using the latest real-time virtual technologies. Plus, a live chat is now available throughout the website in the lower right-hand corner that allows you to connect with knowledgeable team members who are ready to help. Use the links below to contact specific team members and schedule online appointments.

We've got your back!

At Mid, we aren't just focused on your academic achievements, we see you for the complete individual that you are--with family and friends who have all been affected by the COVID-19 situation. We're here to support you, cheer you on, and connect you to local resources that may be of assistance. We encourage you to stay in touch, communicate your concerns, and share our belief that a brighter future is on the horizon.

The links below will provide you with basic guidelines, contact information, and details about learning and service options at Mid.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FUTURES FOR FRONTLINERS!

What is Futures for Frontliners?

Futures for Frontliners is a last-dollar scholarship program for essential workers to attend community college tuition-free – including those without a high school diploma or equivalency. Essential workers can receive free tuition to earn a certificate or associate degree at their local community college.

Who is eligible?

All essential workers in Michigan without college degrees or high school diplomas or equivalency who staffed our hospitals, nursing homes, and grocery stores, who cared for our children, provided critical police and fire services, delivered our food, picked up our trash, manufactured PPE, and other key jobs during the April-June period that kept our state running are eligible. Specifically, applicants must have worked at least half-time in 11 of 13 weeks from April 1 through June 30, 2020.

Hospital and Nursing Home Staff
Grocery Store Employees
Childcare Providers Serving Critical Infrastructure Workers
Personal Protective Equipment Manufacturers
Public Safety Employees
Garbage Collection Workers
Delivery Drivers

The State's full list is as follows:

To be accepted into the program, an individual must

Be a Michigan Resident
Have graduated from high school with a diploma or certificate of completion or earned a high school equivalency certificate
Have been employed in an essential industry during the second quarter of 2020 (April, May, June)
Worked at least half time (an average of 20 hours per week) for 11 of the 13 weeks during the quarter
Not have previously earned an associate degree or baccalaureate degree
- Individuals who have earned a certificate previously, but not an associate or baccalaureate degree ARE eligible for the program.
Complete and submit a Futures for Frontliners application prior to December 31, 2020.

How do Frontliners apply?

Frontliners returning or applying for community college can apply online starting September 9, 2020. Applications for the program must be submitted no later than December 31, 2020.

When can I start taking courses?

Frontliners returning to or starting community college or seeking their high school diploma or equivalency, may start classes anytime in 2021 and as early as the winter semester beginning in January of 2021. Frontliners can pursue up to an associate degree or skills certificate at their local community college tuition-free. Frontliners can prepare for and attain a high school diploma or equivalency, potentially prior to enrollment in post secondary education or training, or while dual enrolled.

Where can I learn more?

Michigan.gov/frontliners

Because you left your house every day as an essential worker during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the rest of us stayed safely indoors, Michigan has offered you the opportunity to attend community college tuition-free – even if you don’t have a high school diploma or equivalency.

Futures for Frontliners is a State scholarship program that offers free in-district tuition to pursue an associate degree or skill certificate at your local community college either full-time or part-time while you work. Out-district students can still benefit, but may have to pay some out-of-pocket tuition costs.