If You are 25 or Older and Want a College Degree, Michigan Reconnect Will Help Get You There with Financial Help

Michigan Reconnect: – Quick Glance:

1. Submit an Applicatio: missg.guarantorsolutions.com
2. File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): https://studentaid.gov/
3. Enroll in a Michigan Public Community College or Tribal College

If you are passionate about helping individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 Years), Michigan Reconnect can help you reach your goal. Michigan Reconnect offers free tuition at public community colleges for in-district students and discounts for out-of-district students. Below are easy steps to jumpstart your college education funding.

Step 1: Check to See if You Qualify

To qualify for the scholarship program, you must be 21 or older, a Michigan resident for longer than a year, have a high school diploma or the equivalent, and have not finished a college degree.

Step 2: Complete an Application with Michigan Reconnect

It only takes a few minutes and can be done using a mobile or desktop browser. 

The application has six sections: 

1. Introduce yourself: Provide basic information such as your name, birthday, residency status, and educational background.
2. Your goals: Identify the community college you’re attending and when, whether you plan on being a full or part-time student, and your area of study.
3. Provide contacts: Have your email address and cell phone number ready.
4. More about you: Additional information on your educational background and why you’re interested in the scholarship.
5. Create a student portal account. 
6. Review and submit: Review your application to ensure the information is correct and submit it for consideration.

Go to the Michigan Reconnect application click here.

Step 3: Enroll in a public community college

Michigan Reconnect is accepted by every public community college in the state, including tribal colleges. To view the complete list of community colleges, click here. 

Tuition is completely covered for students who choose an in-district college. Students selecting out-of-district colleges can still apply for tuition assistance, as determined by Michigan Reconnect.

Step 4: Complete a Federal Student Aid Application

Your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application includes your social security number, your (or your legal guardian’s) federal income tax returns, bank statements, and records of investments.

After your application is processed, you will receive notice of any additional aid available to you.

Step 5: Sign up for eligible classes and programs

Michigan Reconnect includes a useful list of what is and is not covered within the scholarship program. Be sure to learn more about what’s covered.

To learn more about Michigan Reconnect, click here: https://www.michigan.gov/reconnect/about 

Ages 21-24, go here for more information: https://www.michigan.gov/reconnect/community-college/michigan-reconnect-for-ages-21-to-24

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About OPTIMISE

OPTIMISE attracts, prepares, and retains diverse and qualified personnel to help advance individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 years). 

The OPTIMISE Task Force, Core Team, and Action Teams work with many partners, including Michigan’s leading education organizations and legislature, to reduce barriers and align licensing for special educators. This work also includes working with all levels of education to accomplish this goal.

OPTIMISE promotes ten professions within Michigan’s special education field, their funding options, and steps to jumpstart a career in special education. 

Join a great group of dedicated people who help individuals with disabilities excel.

Go to: OPTIMISE.education