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February 06, 2025
More than 207,000 Michiganders are on a Tuition-Free Path to High-Demand, Good Paying Careers
LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) announced this week that over 207,000 Michiganders have taken the first step toward earning a tuition-free degree or credential through Michigan Reconnect. This milestone includes nearly 35,000 applicants aged 21-24 who applied during the program’s temporary expansion, which concluded on Dec. 31, 2024. The announcement was made during an event held at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC).
“This month, we are celebrating the fourth anniversary of Michigan Reconnect, a bipartisan program that’s already put more than 207,000 Michiganders on a tuition-free path to a higher education or skill certificate and a better-paying job,” said Governor Whitmer. “Michigan Reconnect’s success is driven by ongoing, bipartisan support from legislators and collaboration with our incredible network of community colleges. Together, we will keep lowering costs and creating opportunities for everyone to earn more money and find a rewarding, in-demand career.”
“We are excited about the positive impact Michigan Reconnect is making throughout our state and its crucial role in equipping Michiganders with access to a tuition-free college degree or skill certificate to help land a great job,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “This scholarship is supporting thousands of Michigan adults as they continue their educational journeys. Our team at MiLEAP is dedicated to collaborating with colleges and partners to build on this work and help more Michiganders reach their educational goals and build their careers right here in Michigan.”
“The evidence is undeniable: the higher your education level, the higher your income. The Michigan Reconnect program has become an essential resource for Michiganders looking to advance their careers and build a more prosperous future,” said State Rep. Carol Glanville from the Grand Rapids area. “It’s crucial that we continue expanding this initiative and ensure every resident is aware of the transformative power it offers to people.”
"This past fall, 12,410 students were enrolled at GRCC, with 2,505 eligible for MI Reconnect—representing 20% of our student body. These students are here because of the opportunities provided by Reconnect dollars, highlighting the significant impact this program has on expanding access to higher education for adult learners in our community," said Lisa Freiburger, GRCC’s Vice President for Finance and Administration. "Since its inception, 812 Reconnect students have graduated from GRCC with degrees or certificates. These graduates are more than just numbers—they are individuals who have overcome barriers, pursued education to better their lives, and are now contributing to their families and communities. Their stories reflect the power of opportunity, and the lasting impact of the Michigan Reconnect program."
Michigan Reconnect is an important part of the state’s efforts to provide affordable pathways for Michiganders to earn a skill certificate or college degree and help achieve the state’s Sixty by 30 Goal to increase the number of working-age adults with a skill certificate or college degree from the current level of 51.8% to 60% by 2030.
Launched in February 2021 by Governor Whitmer and a bipartisan legislature, Michigan Reconnect is the largest program of its kind in state history. It allows adults the opportunity to earn a tuition-free associate degree or skill certificate at their local community or Tribal college, regardless of family income. Traditionally available to adults aged 25 and up, the program was expanded in 2023 to temporarily lower the eligibility age to 21, with applications accepted through December 2024. The application remains open to those 25 and up.
To date, more than 66,500 students have enrolled in community or Tribal colleges through Michigan Reconnect, including 12,500 ages 21-24. Over 8,100 individuals have successfully earned their credentials. An additional, 6,000 Michiganders have earned degrees or credentials through Futures for Frontliners which preceded Reconnect, offering a tuition-free path to a postsecondary degree or credential to those who served on the frontlines during the pandemic. In total, more than 14,000 individuals have earned skill certificates and degrees between the two programs.
To support students on their educational paths, Michigan Reconnect connects individuals with Reconnect Navigators who provide personalized guidance throughout the college-going process, assisting students with applying for federal student aid, setting career goals, selecting programs of study, registering for classes and creating graduation plans.
Navigators host online drop-in office hours every Tuesday from 12-2 p.m. and Thursday from 5-7 p.m. to offer one-on-one support to anyone interested in Michigan Reconnect.
Learn more about earning a degree or certificate tuition-free through Michigan Reconnect and apply today at Michigan.gov/Reconnect.
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