Community College Guarantee
Earn an associate degree, tuition-free!
The Community College Guarantee offers high school graduates from the class of 2023 and beyond the chance to earn an associate degree tuition-free if you live in Grand Traverse County, and at a greatly reduced price if not.
The new state program is designed to help you gain valuable skills without incurring debt. There are also no income or GPA eligibility requirements.
The Community College Guarantee covers:
- In-district tuition, contact hours and fees.
- An additional $1,000 Michigan Achievement Bonus award for Pell-eligible students, which can be used toward additional college costs.
FAQ
The Community College Guarantee is available to all Michigan high school and GED students graduating in the class of 2023 and beyond. Students must start within 15 months of graduation to qualify.
Students must be enrolled full time (at least 12 credits, typically four classes per semester) and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
For out-of-district students, the Community College Guarantee will cover more than half the cost (half the tuition and all fees). Pell grant funds can be used to cover the out-of-district difference.
Learn more here
NOTE: The Community College Guarantee does not apply to students enrolled in NMC bachelor degree programs including Marine Technology and the Great Lakes Maritime Academy's Deck Officer, Engineering Officer and Power Systems programs. Those students may still be eligible for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, which offers up to $27,500 over five years (up to $5,500 per year). All students who fill out the FAFSA are automatically considered for the scholarship.
“I’m proud of our work to lower the cost of higher education and put college or skills training in reach for more working Michigan families. This education budget goes even further, delivering on our Michigan Guarantee to ensure every Michigan high school graduate can earn an associate degree or skills certificate tuition-free at their community college.”
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer
“A solid community college education provides the foundation for success and good-paying and rewarding careers, including jobs in the skilled trades and the modern economy.”
NMC President Nick Nissley, Ed.D.
In the News
Michigan joins list of states that offer tuition-free community college
USA TODAY
July 27, 2024
Michigan to launch free community college program this fall
HIGHER ED DIVE
July 18, 2024