Reconnect Scholarship Expands to 21 & Up

Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently expanded Michigan Reconnect eligibility for adults ages 21 to 24 who have not yet earned a college degree. Previously, Michigan Reconnect, a tuition-free community college scholarship program, was limited to those 25 and older. 

“By temporarily lowering the age for Michigan Reconnect from 25 to 21, we're opening doors of opportunity for up to 350,000 more Michiganders to earn a tuition-free associate degree or skills certificate,” said Governor Whitmer. “This expansion will help us reach our Sixty by 30 goal—to have 60% of adults earn a postsecondary education or training by 2030—and build on our economic momentum. Together, we can help more young Michiganders ‘make it’ in Michigan and build a brighter, more prosperous future for families and businesses.” 

The Michigan Reconnect scholarship established in February 2021 is the largest such program in state history. Since it began less than three years ago, more than 132,000 Michiganders have applied to the program.

Applicants ages 21 to 24 must enroll no later than the fall semester 2024, to take advantage of the temporary expansion.

“For currently enrolled students or potential students ages 21 -24, now is the time to get on board and sign up for Reconnect while the opportunity exists,” Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Director Susan Corbin said.

Students not already enrolled must complete these steps to take advantage of this limited-time scholarship.

  • Apply for the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship at michigan.gov/Reconnect by Nov. 15, 2024.
  • Apply to a Michigan community or tribal college.
  • File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  • Enroll in your program of study and begin coursework no later than the fall semester 2024.

Prospective students can learn more by visiting midmich.edu/reconnect or contacting Admissions at admissions@midmich.edu or (989) 386-6661.

Current or returning students can also visit midmich.edu/reconnect or contact their Mid Mentor for additional information on applying for the Reconnect Scholarship.