Paying For College In Michigan · developed. There are apprenticeships, certificate programs, and...

PAYING FOR COLLEGE IN MICHIGAN

2008-09

An educational resource guide for students and for those who want to see them succeed.

Everyone . . .

. . . can go to college.

Student Financial Services Bureau Michigan Department of Treasury P.O. Box 30047 Lansing, MI 48909-7547 Web Site: www.michigan.gov/studentaid Email: [email protected] 1-800-642-5626, extension 37054

This material was prepared by the Student Financial Services Bureau of the Michigan Department of Treasury and printed in compliance with Executive Directive 1991-6. 60,000 copies were printed at a cost of $26,994 ($.45 each). 4418 (Rev. 08-08)

September 2008

Dear Student: Congratulations! Since you are already exploring the next stage of your education, you are on the right track. Whether you are a recent high school graduate about to enter college for the first time or an adult pursuing a college degree or specialized training to enhance your career, engaging in education beyond high school will be the key to your financial success. I hope your plans include working and living in Michigan, enjoying everything this great state has to offer. At the same time that you will be achieving your own financial success, you will also be contributing to the success of our state. Paying for College in Michigan is an excellent resource for college planning and student financial aid. Produced by the Michigan Department of Treasury, Student Financial Services Bureau, this publication will provide you with specific information about the state and federal financial aid programs that are available and how to apply for the funds. The state of Michigan provides more than $255 million annually in merit-based and need-based financial aid to help Michigan students reach their educational or training goals. And beginning with the class of 2007, all high school graduates in Michigan are eligible for the $4,000 Michigan Promise Scholarship. That means for the first time in our state’s history, some type of education after high school is now within reach for every student. Information on these and other financial aid programs can be found in the Paying for College in Michigan publication or on our Web site www.michigan.gov/studentaid. The state of Michigan offers all residents many opportunities to pursue education beyond high school. There are four-year public universities, community colleges, and independent colleges and universities. There are also numerous training programs available from proprietary institutions. Many of the colleges, universities, and training centers offer numerous locations throughout the state, with more being developed. There are apprenticeships, certificate programs, and vocational education programs available. In addition, many of the institutions offer online courses to assist students who choose to study from home and fulfill other obligations related to family and work. You have many options from which to choose. Again, congratulations for recognizing that your future depends on setting new education goals and working hard to reach them. Nothing could be more important to your future and Michigan’s future.

Sincerely, Jennifer M. Granholm Governor

http://www.michigan.gov/studentaid

Paying for College in Michigan 2 www.michigan.gov/studentaid

TABLE OF CONTENTS

COLLEGE SAVINGS PLANS Michigan Education Trust (MET) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP) . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 PRINCIPLES OF FINANCIAL AID Sources of Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Types of Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Financial Aid Funding Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Primary Sources of Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Determining Financial Need . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Personal Identification Number (PIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Supplemental Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Independent Student Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Dependent Student Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Home Schooled Students. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Steps to Apply for Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Processing Delays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 FAFSA Application Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 MICHIGAN FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS Michigan Promise Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Michigan Competitive Scholarship (MCS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Michigan Tuition Grant (MTG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Michigan Educational Opportunity Grant (MEOG) . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Adult Part-Time Grant (APTG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Michigan Work-Study (MWS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Michigan Nursing Scholarship (MNS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Children of Veterans Tuition Grant (CVTG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Education and Training Voucher (ETV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Police Officer’s and Fire Fighter’s Survivor Tuition Act . . . . . . . . . . 27 Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 PROGRAMS FOR NATIVE AMERICANS Michigan Indian Tuition Waiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Bureau of Indian Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29


FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS Federal Pell Grant Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG) Program . . . . . . . . . . . 31 National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant Program . . 32 TEACH Grant Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) . . . . . . . . 35 Federal Work-Study (FWS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Federal Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Special/Federal Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (S/LEAP). . . . . . 38 Youth in Transition (YIT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Federal Health and Human Services (HHS) Programs . . . . . . . . . . 39 Carl D. Perkins Career and Technology Education Act of 2006 . . . . . . . . . 39 Military Tuition Support Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and Michigan National Guard . . . . . . 41 Education Tax Credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 SEARCHING FOR SCHOLARSHIPS Go the Traditional Route First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Scholarship Search Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 The Application Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Scholarship Search Web Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Scholarship Scams – “If it sounds too good to be true . . .” . . . . . . . . . . 45 CALENDARS/CHECKLISTS Junior Year College Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Senior Year College Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Parents: Help Your Child Prepare for College . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 GLOSSARY OF TERMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 MICHIGAN COLLEGE LISTS AND MAPS Michigan Schools by Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Michigan Public Four-Year Universities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Michigan Public Community Colleges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Special Category Schools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Michigan Two- and Four-Year Independent Colleges and Universities . . . . . . 57 Michigan Proprietary Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 A GUIDE FOR ADULTS IN PURSUIT OF HIGHER EDUCATION Three Important Facts You Need to Know About Going to College . . . . . . . . 62 Types of Financial Aid You Might Be Eligible For . . . . . . . . . . . . 63


PAYING FOR COLLEGE IN MICHIGAN A higher education is a lifetime investment. It will enhance a person’s life economically, socially, and professionally. A college education will help an individual achieve career and monetary goals far greater than those without one. A recent study reported that a college graduate would earn $1 million more in a lifetime than someone with a high school diploma. Not all students are able to pay for a college education without financial assistance. Financial aid programs were created to help students and parents realize that a college education is attainable and achievable. Further, providing financial aid to students helps to:

• Promote accessibility • Influence choice of institution and degree program

• Provide incentives to continue education

• Retain good students

• Reward academic achievements

• Promote degree completion

• Produce educated workers

COLLEGE SAVINGS PLANS The earlier financial planning takes place the better. In some cases, families and students have the financial resources to pay postsecondary education expenses through the use of current income and assets. Families can plan ahead by prepaying tuition or saving and investing over time. Even if it is not possible to accumulate all the funds needed to cover total college expenses, those with some degree of financial resources available are in a better position to handle these costs. The following two programs assist Michigan families in this effort: Michigan Education Trust (MET) MET, Michigan’s guaranteed tuition program, allows parents, grandparents, or others to pre-purchase undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees. The contract price is based on current tuition costs and the age or grade of the child. Types of Contracts There are three types of MET contracts that may be purchased: Full Benefits Plan, Limited Benefits Plan, and the Community College Plan. There are also options available to purchase the contract over a four-, seven-, ten-, or fifteen-year period. MET contracts will provide in-state or in-district tuition and mandatory fees at any Michigan public college or university. MET contracts are also portable to in-state private colleges or out-of-state colleges.


Tax Incentives The total price of any MET contract can be deducted on the Michigan income tax form. Prepaid tuition earnings are tax-exempt if MET contract benefits are used for qualified higher education expenses. Eligibility The child for whom a MET contract is purchased must be a Michigan resident at the time of purchase. Students must meet the admission requirements of the college or university they wish to attend. For additional information about MET, call 1-800-MET-4-KID (1-800-638-4543) or access the Web site at www.setwithmet.com. Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP) MESP is a savings/investment program designed to assist families with preparing for higher education expenses. A child’s parents or others can open an account for the child/beneficiary. The MESP account can then grow through regular contributions and investment growth. Once the student is ready to enroll in a postsecondary education institution, the funds from their MESP account can be used for any qualified higher education expenses at any institution in the country. An account can be opened for as little as $25 ($15 with payroll deduction), with maximum total contributions allowable of $235,000 (including any amount paid into MET). Investment Options MESP offers families seven investment options: Conservative Age-Based Allocation Option, Moderate Age-Based Allocation Option, Aggressive Age-Based Allocation Option, 100% Fixed-Income Option, 100% Equity Option, Balanced Option, and Principal Plus Interest Option. Investment options vary in their investment strategy and degree of risk. Tax Incentives The amount contributed each year to an MESP account can be deducted from Michigan taxable income up to $5,000 per individual tax filer or $10,000 for joint tax filers. In addition, account earnings are tax-exempt if the account is used for qualified higher education expenses. Eligibility There are no residency, age, or grade requirements to open an account. Students must meet the admission requirements of the college or university they wish to attend. For additional information about MESP, call 1-877-861-MESP (1-877-861-6377) or access the Web site at www.misaves.com.


PRINCIPLES OF FINANCIAL AID

Sources of Financial Aid The main sources of student financial aid are the federal government, state government, institutions (colleges and universities), and private sources such as associations, foundations, employers, unions, etc. Types of Financial Aid

Distribution of Funding Sources

Loans 56% Scholarships 39% and Grants Tax Credits and 4% Deductions Work-Study 1%

The primary sources of aid are grouped into six categories:

• College savings programs: Prepaid tuition plans or saving and investing over time.

• Scholarships: Awards based on need or merit; do not have to be

repaid. • Grants: Awards based on need; do not have to be repaid.

• Loans: Must be repaid with interest upon leaving school.

• Work-Study: Students work while attending school.

• Tax credits and deductions: Offset higher education costs by reducing the amount of income

taxes paid. Financial Aid Funding Options Student financial aid consists of any source of funds available to students and their families for paying for the cost of college or any postsecondary education. Included in the types of aid are merit-based, need-based, and non-need-based aid.

• Merit-based aid is designed to assist students who excel in areas such as academics, sports, leadership, music, art, dance, etc. Merit-based aid is used to recruit and recognize students for their special talent or merit.

• Need-based aid is determined by completing the Free

Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students may be able to demonstrate that they and their families cannot pay for all of the postsecondary education costs on their own. Students who demonstrate financial need based on the results of the FAFSA may be eligible to receive an award based on their need for aid.

• Non-need-based aid is available to those students who cannot

demonstrate financial need or who have additional college expenses that exceed need-based or merit-based aid.


Primary Sources of Aid

Federal Aid Programs

• Pell Grant • Supplemental Educational

Opportunity Grant • Work-Study • Perkins Loan • Subsidized and

Unsubsidized Stafford Loan

• PLUS Loan

Education Tax Benefits

• Hope Tax Credit • Lifetime Learning Tax

Credit

Institutional and Private Aid Institutional:

• Trustee Scholarships • Foundation Endowment

Scholarships Private:

• Professional Associations • Foundations • Corporations • Community Organizations

Civic Religious Social Alumni

• Commercial Lending Institutions

• Place of Employment • Research Institutes

State Aid

• Michigan Promise

Scholarship • Michigan Competitive

Scholarship • Michigan Tuition Grant • Michigan Educational

Opportunity Grant • Michigan Adult Part-Time

Grant • Michigan Work-Study • Michigan Nursing

Scholarship • Tuition Incentive Program • MI-LOAN®

Note: The primary sources of aid are estimated and based on data from the College Board for Academic Year 2006-07. Determining Financial Need Knowing the key principles of student financial aid will help students and families understand how financial need is calculated. The federal government determines student financial need by adhering to the following guidelines:

• Paying for the student’s educational costs is the primary responsibility of the student and parent(s).

• Aid is distributed based on ability to pay – not willingness to pay.

Education Tax Benefits –$5.1 Billion

5%

Institutional and Private Aid – $27.9 Billion

29% Federal Aid – $56.6 Billion

58%

State Aid – $7.5 Billion

8%


• Families are reviewed and assessed according to their financial condition at the time of filing the FAFSA.

• Families are evaluated in an equitable and consistent manner, recognizing that special

circumstances may affect the family’s ability to pay. These principles are the foundation for determining a student’s financial need. In order to evaluate families in an equitable and consistent manner, the federal government requires institutions to use the same formula to calculate a student’s demonstrated need: cost of attendance minus Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The cost of attendance is based on the average educational and living expenses for a student attending a specific college or university. It does not represent an individual student’s actual costs to attend a postsecondary institution. The cost of attendance varies at each institution; therefore, students should check with the college or university they are considering to determine their actual cost of attendance. The cost of attendance includes:

Calculating Need

Cost of Attendance - Expected Family Contribution (EFC) = Financial Need

• Tuition and fees • Books, supplies, and equipment

• Room and board

• Transportation

• Miscellaneous personal expenses • Loan fees

• Study abroad costs

• Expenses associated with a disability

• Dependent and elder care expenses

• Cooperative education program costs

The EFC is based on a student’s contribution from income and assets plus the parent’s contribution from income and assets. To determine the EFC, families must complete the FAFSA. Financial aid calculators are available to help students and parents estimate their EFC and determine how much college will cost. Examples of financial aid calculators may be found at www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov, www.collegeboard.com/student/pay/add-it-up/401.html, http://act.org/fane/index.html, and www.mappingyourfuture.org/money/budgetcalculator.htm.


http://www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov/

http://act.org/fane/index.html

http://www.mappingyourfuture.org/money/budgetcalculator.htm

APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) To be considered for student financial aid, all students and parents must complete the FAFSA. The FAFSA is the only approved application students and parents should use to apply for federal, state, and institutional financial aid. Additionally, some private sources of aid may require the completion of the FAFSA. There are two ways to file the FAFSA: (1) electronically at www.fafsa.ed.gov and (2) by paper. Currently, more than 80 percent of all FAFSAs are filed electronically using FAFSA on tWeb, with 12 percent being filed using the paper form, and the remaining eight percent using other electronic media. The advantages of filing electronically are:

he

• Edit checks – performed prior to submitting the application in

order to reduce errors. • “Skip logic” – allows students and parents to skip sections of

the FASFA that are not required.

• Reduction in processing time – reduces processing time from up to six weeks for the paper FAFSA to approximately two weeks for the online version.

To assist students and parents in completing the FAFSA electronically, the U.S. Department of Education developed a FAFSA on the Web Worksheet. This worksheet gives students and parents the opportunity to gather all the information necessary to complete the FAFSA online. Once all the information is gathered and the worksheet is complete, students and parents may simply answer the questions online with a minimal amount of time spent on the computer. Though filing the FAFSA electronically has its advantages, some students and parents still prefer to file the paper FAFSA. If this option is chosen, it is important to remember to answer all of the questions and to thoroughly check all answers prior to mailing the form. Students may request up to three copies of the paper application and the FAFSA worksheet by contacting the Federal Processing Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243) or go to www.fafsa.ed.gov and send an email by clicking on the tab labeled “Contact Us.” Students should receive their copies within three to seven business days. Questions about filing the FAFSA can be answered by contacting the student’s high school counselor, the financial aid officer at the institution to be attended, accessing the Web at www.fafsa.ed.gov and checking out the Frequently Asked Questions section, or by calling 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243). IMPORTANT: Students and parents must complete the FAFSA every

year. The FAFSA cannot be completed until January 1 and should be filed prior to March 1 to receive priority consideration for Michigan state-awarded aid. Filing the FAFSA after March 1 greatly decreases a student’s chances of being awarded state financial aid funds. Even if the March 1 priority date has passed, students and parents must still complete the FAFSA to apply for federal aid and any available state aid.

FAFSA:

Must File Every Year


http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/



Personal Identification Number (PIN) Prior to completing the electronic FAFSA, the student and at least one parent must obtain a PIN access code at www.PIN.ed.gov. The PIN is an electronic access code that will allow students to:

• Complete, sign, and submit the FAFSA. Both parents and students must get

a PIN.

PIN received: Email 1-3 days Mail 7-10 days

• Make corrections to the FAFSA.

• Electronically sign promissory notes.

• Access federal student aid records online, including student loan history information on the

National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS). Once the student and at least one parent obtain their PIN access codes, the FAFSA can be completed online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Supplemental Applications Some postsecondary institutions may also require students and parents to complete a supplemental form called the PROFILE®. The PROFILE is uto determine eligibility for institutional aid. A fee is charged for procesform. Students should check with the colleges they are considering atteto learn if the PROFILE or any other additional applications are require

sed sing this

nding d.

dependent Student Status

any students feel that they are independent because they are no longer living with their parents or

• Is 24 years of age or older by December 31 of the award year.

• Is a graduate or professional student.

• Is married.

• Has legal dependent(s) other than a spouse; this dependant must

• Is an orphan or ward of the court, or was a ward of the court until

• Is currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces.

• Is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.

here could be situations in which a student does not meet the above definition but may be determined

attend. The federal government does not get involved in these determinations.

CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE®

In Mguardians. However, for the purposes of student financial aid eligibility, federal regulations state a student must meet one of the following criteria to be considered independent:

receive more than half of its support from the student.

age 18. Effective with the 2009-10 academic year, to qualify at theage of 13, the student must have both parents deceased, or student is in foster care, or student is a dependent/ward of thecourt.

Tindependent due to extenuating circumstances. If the student believes extenuating circumstances exist,the student should contact the college or university’s financial aid office where the student plans to


http://www.pin.ed.gov/


Dependent Student Status A student who does not meet the eligibility requirements for an independent student is considered a dependent student. Home Schooled Students Home schooled students may apply for student financial aid the same as a student who has achieved a state-endorsed diploma or a GED. All students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). A college or university may accept a home schooled student’s self-certification (endorsed by the parent or home school teacher) that they completed high school course work in a home school setting, just as it may accept a high school graduate’s self-certification of their receipt of a high school diploma or GED. The student needs to contact the financial aid office at the college or university in which they plan to enroll to find out whether any other documentation is needed. Steps to Apply for Financial Aid

• To learn more about applying for financial aid, attend a high school financial aid night or College Goal Sunday, or go to the College Goal Sunday Web site at www.micollegegoal.org. Check with a high school counselor to obtain dates and locations.

• Complete the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

• If filing online, the student and at least one parent must request a PIN

from the federal government prior to submitting the FAFSA online. The same PIN is used each year the student and/or parent files for financial aid.

• Read the application instructions carefully before beginning to complete the form.

• Observe and meet all deadlines in filing applications for federal, state, private, and institutional aid

programs.

• In addition to the FAFSA, find out whether any supplemental application (such as the PROFILE) must be filed.

• If unusual circumstances exist, contact the postsecondary institution’s financial aid office to

discuss the circumstances in detail.

• Comply with all written requests for information.

• Maintain a file of all applications and/or forms submitted.

• Keep copies of all tax forms and schedules.

• Keep a copy of the FAFSA.

• Record the dates for filing each application.

• Respond promptly to award offers from institutions.

Obtain a PIN: www.pin.ed.gov

Filing dates for state of Michigan aid:

January 1 through March 1


Processing Delays Errors made on the FAFSA may cause delays in the financial aid awarding process and could result ithe loss of aid. To re

n duce the number of errors, avoid the following:

r inaccurate information.

the Social Security card.

AFSA Application Process

cor ec led on paper, corrections will need o b e federal processor.

• Submitting incomplete o • Not submitting applications by the published deadlines.

• Not recording name and Social Security number as they appear on

• Submitting inaccurate Social Security number.

• Submitting inaccurate date of birth.

• Not reporting other untaxed income.

Show name on FAFSA the same as on

Social Security card.

F

or Paper Application Submitted

Electronic Application Submitted

U.S. Department of Education’s Processing CenteAssesses information reported on FAFSA

and determines Expected Family Contribution.

r

Paper FAFSA Student receives

Studen

College(s) Student Aid Report

Electronic FAFSA *Student receives

t Aid Report (SAR) sent

application.

Student Aid Report (SAR) within 4-6 weeks.

electronically to each college listed on the

(SAR) within 7-10 days.

* If filed online and an email address was provided on the FAFSA, the student will receive an email from the federal processor containing a s he

Financial Aid Award Letters

Student receives from colleges. ecure link to access his or

r results. r tions are needed, they can be made and submitted online. If fiIf

t e made on the actual SAR and mailed back to th



ted for verification. Verification requires ubmission of all income documents and verification worksheet to all

stitution’s financial aid office. An award letter may consist of a combination of scholarships, grants, wor t

ccepted. For example, if a student does not want to work during the r

nds. ee d eed to ete i id cc te sible options include:

ivate loans.

vings, or second mortgages.

The SAR may be selecscolleges listed on the SAR. Financial aid cannot be processed until all required verification documents have been submitted to the in

k-s udy, and loans. Not all aid that is offered needs to be a

ir fi st year in college, they can choose not to accept work-study If all of the offered aid is not accepted or additional aid is fu

n de to meet college costs, the student and family nrm ne options for filling the gap between the financial ad

a ep d and the amount still needed. Pos

• Additional loans: parent loans or pr • Payment plans, personal sa


MICHIGAN FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS The Michigan Legislature established the first student financial aid programs for Michigan residents in 1966 with the purpose of providing financial assistance to Michigan residents who were pursuing postsecondary education degrees. Today that same dedication continues. The state of Michigan is committed to ensuring that every Michigan resident who desires to go to college has that opportunity regardless of their economic status. Michigan supports a number of financial aid resources and programs to assist students in their pursuit of a postsecondary education. Funding and program requirements for all programs are subject to legislative changes. Refer to the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid for the most up-to-date information. Michigan Promise Scholarship This scholarship is merit-based and awarded to students who take the Michigan Merit Exam (MME) and the ACT Writing Plus® and complete two years of postsecondary education. All students who take the test have the opportunity to receive the $4,000 Michigan Promise scholarship if they meet all eligibility requirements. The award is used for educational expenses at approved postsecondary institutions. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Michigan Promise Scholarship, a student must:

• Take the Michigan Merit Exam (MME) including the ACT Writing Plus®.

• Have not received a Merit Award under the Merit Award Act.

• Must certify eligibility for a scholarship installment payment.

• Enroll at an approved Michigan postsecondary institution or a military service academy within two years of becoming a high school graduate (two-year period would be extended for service in the U.S. Armed Forces or Peace Corps).

• Complete the postsecondary education requirements (associate’s degree, two-year certificate,

vocational education program, or 50 percent of the academic requirements for a bachelor’s degree, which is 60 semester or 90 term credits) within four years of initial enrollment.

Note: Students completing a vocational training program requiring less than two years for

completion may be eligible for a prorated scholarship.

• Achieve a cumulative college GPA of 2.5 (or proof of course completion for students completing vocational education programs that do not record grades).

• Be a high school graduate or have passed the GED or any other graduate equivalency exam

approved by the State Board of Education.

• Be a Michigan resident.


Application Procedure Students apply for the Michigan Promise scholarship by taking the Michigan Merit Exam including the ACT Plus Writing® test while in high school. Students must initiate the use of their scholarship within two years of high school graduation and all funds must be fully utilized within four years of initiation.

• Installment payments – Students eligible for installment payments must certify their scholarship by November 15 with the Office of Scholarships and Grants.

• Final payments – Students eligible for funds upon successful completion of a program may obtain

an application form online at www.Michigan.gov/promise. Award Amount Students who receive qualifying scores (Level 2 or above) in each of the required components on the test are eligible to receive up to a maximum of $1,000 installment payments in the first and second year of enrollment. A maximum of $2,000 is awarded upon the successful completion of their postsecondary education requirements. Students who do not qualify for installment payments can be awarded up to $4,000 upon the successful completion of their postsecondary education requirements. Students are responsible for notifying the Office of Scholarships and Grants of a change in their college choice. For additional information about the Michigan Promise scholarship, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/promise. Michigan Competitive Scholarship (MCS) This scholarship is based on both financial need and merit. Competitive Scholarship funds may be used at Michigan public and independent, nonprofit degree-granting postsecondary institutions. Awards are restricted to the cost of tuition and fees. Eligibility ends when a student has completed a baccalaureate degree, after completing the equivalent of 10 semesters or 15 terms, or when a student has been out of high school over ten years, whichever occurs first. A student must take the ACT prior to entering college and achieve a qualifying test score. The ACT must be taken by December of the senior year of high school for priority consideration. Students should contact their high school counseling office for information on ACT national test dates and how to sign up for the test. They may also contact ACT directly at www.actstudent.org for national test dates, sites, and test preparation information. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Competitive Scholarship, a student must:

• Demonstrate financial need.


• Achieve a qualifying score on the ACT. • Achieve a high school diploma, GED certificate, or meet the institution’s Ability-to-Benefit

standards.

• Qualify as a Michigan resident as of July 1 of the previous year.

• Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or approved refugee.

• Enroll at least half-time at an eligible Michigan college or university.

• For renewal, maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average (GPA). • For renewal, meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress

(SAP) policy. • Not have a bachelor’s degree. • Not attend an institution whose primary purpose is to prepare

students for ordination or appointment as a member of the clergy of a church, denomination, or religious association, order, or sect.

• Not be in default on a federal student loan.

• Not be incarcerated.

Application Procedure Students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) after January 1. Priority in determining awards is given to students who apply by March 1. The student must complete the FAFSA every year to be reconsidered for an award. Award Amount The maximum award amount is determined each year and approved by the Michigan Higher Education Assistance Authority. Currently the maximum award amount is $1,300 per academic year at a Michigan public college or university, or $2,100 per academic year at a Michigan independent college or university. Awards are issued to eligible applicants based on demonstrated financial need. The award amount received by the student is the lesser of:

• Maximum award amount • Tuition and required fees

• Financial need

Future awards are subject to available and approved funding. Other Gift Aid It is the responsibility of the college financial aid office to coordinate all sources of aid for which you may be eligible. Other gift aid may reduce or cancel this award.


For additional information about the Michigan Competitive Scholarship program, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid. Michigan Tuition Grant (MTG) This award is based on financial need for use at independent, nonprofit degree-granting colleges and universities in Michigan. This grant is available to both undergraduate and graduate students. Awards are restricted to the cost of tuition and fees. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Tuition Grant, a student must:


• Achieve a high school diploma, a GED certificate, or meet the institution’s Ability-to-Benefit

standards. • Qualify as a Michigan resident as of July 1 of the previous year. • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or approved refugee.

• Attend an approved independent, nonprofit degree-granting Michigan postsecondary institution. • Enroll at least half-time as an undergraduate or graduate student. • Meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

policy. • Not be pursuing a degree in theology, divinity, or religious

education. • Not be in default on a federal student loan. • Not be incarcerated.

Application Procedure Students must file the FAFSA after January 1. Students who file by March 1 will receive priority consideration. Award Amount Awards are restricted to tuition and mandatory fees. Awards pay up to a maximum of $2,100 per academic year. Students may receive the equivalent of ten (10) semesters or 15 terms of full-time assistance as an undergraduate and six (6) semesters or nine (9) terms for graduate studies. Future awards are subject to available and approved funding.


Other Gift Aid It is the responsibility of the college financial aid office to coordinate all sources of aid for which the student may be eligible. Other gift aid may reduce or cancel this award. For additional information about the Michigan Tuition Grant, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid. Michigan Educational Opportunity Grant (MEOG) This is a need-based grant for undergraduate students who enroll on at least a half-time basis at a public, degree-granting Michigan college or university. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Educational Opportunity Grant, a student must:

• Demonstrate financial need. • Be a Michigan resident one year prior to beginning of

enrollment.

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

• Enroll at least half-time in an eligible undergraduate program.

• Meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.

• Not be in default on a federal student loan.

• Not be incarcerated.

Application Procedure Students apply for the MEOG by filing the FAFSA. The college is responsible for awarding the funds to eligible students. Qualifying students will receive an award letter. Award Amount The maximum award amount is $1,000 per academic year. Future awards are subject to available and approved funding. For additional information about the Michigan Educational Opportunity Grant, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid.

For announcements or updates on Michigan

financial aid programs:

www.michigan.gov/studentaid


Adult Part-Time Grant (APTG) This grant provides need-based financial assistance for independent, undergraduate students who have been out of high school (other than GED or adult education) for at least two years. Qualifying students must enroll at a participating public or independent degree-granting Michigan college or university on a part-time (3–11 credits) basis. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Adult Part-Time Grant, a student must:

• Demonstrate financial need. • Be a Michigan resident for one year prior to program application.


• Be considered independent based on federal guidelines.

• Enroll part-time (3-11 credit hours) in an eligible undergraduate

program.

• Meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.

• Not be in default on an educational loan.

• Not be incarcerated. Application Procedure Students apply for the APTG by filing the FAFSA. The college is responsible for awarding the funds to eligible students. Qualifying students will receive an award letter. Award Amount The maximum award amount is $600 per academic year for not more than two, 12-month periods at any participating college. Future awards are subject to available and approved funding. For additional information about the Adult Part-Time Grant, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid. Michigan Work-Study (MWS) This award offers work opportunities for undergraduate or graduate students who enroll in participating degree-granting Michigan colleges and universities. Employment is usually on campus but many colleges have agreements with off-campus employers. Award amounts vary based on need, wage, and hours worked. The rate of pay will be at least the current Federal minimum wage.


In addition to earning money for school, a work-study position enables a student to gain valuable work experience and develop human relations skills as well as leadership abilities. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for Michigan Work-Study funds, the student must:


• Be a Michigan resident. • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. • Enroll at least half-time in an eligible program. • Meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy. • Not be in default on a federal student loan. • Not be incarcerated.

Application Procedure Students apply for MWS by filing the FAFSA. The college is responsible for awarding the funds to eligible students. Qualifying students will receive an award letter. Award Amount The award amount varies based upon need, hours worked, and wages paid. For additional information about Michigan Work-Study, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid. Michigan Nursing Scholarship (MNS) This is a non-need-based award available to Michigan residents enrolled at least half-time at an eligible institution in a program leading to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), or Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN). Students are selected for scholarship awards by their college or university financial aid office. Selections are competitive, and institutions may add additional eligibility criteria. Students receiving a scholarship award must agree to work as a direct patient care nurse in an eligible Michigan facility, or as a teacher of nursing at an eligible Michigan postsecondary institution, one year for each year of assistance. Important: Failure to fulfill the work commitment will result in the

scholarship becoming a loan that must be repaid.


Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Michigan Nursing Scholarship, the student must:

• Agree to gain nursing licensure and eligible direct care nursing employment or employment as a teacher of nursing at an eligible postsecondary institution in Michigan within one year of completing the academic program.

• Agree to repay the scholarship if the work requirement or other program provisions are not met.

• Enroll at least half-time in a nursing program at an approved public or independent, degree-

granting Michigan postsecondary institution.

• Be a legal Michigan resident for one year prior to beginning nursing program enrollment.


• Not have been convicted of a felony involving an assault, physical injury, or death.

• For renewal, meet the institution’s Satisfactory

Academic Progress (SAP) policy.

• Meet any other program requirements. Application Procedure There is no application form for students to submit to the MNS program. Colleges will award the scholarships and may require submission of a form for scholarship consideration. Students are advised to contact their institution’s financial aid office for information about how to be considered for an award. Award Amount Scholarship awards are $4,000 per academic year for full-time students, $3,000 for three-quarter-time students, or $2,000 for half-time students. Scholarships cannot exceed the cost of attendance minus other grants and scholarships. Students may receive scholarship assistance for up to four academic years subject to available and approved funding. For additional information about the Michigan Nursing Scholarship, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid.


Children of Veterans Tuition Grant (CVTG) This grant is designed to provide undergraduate tuition assistance to certain children older than 16 and less than 26 years of age who are the natural or adopted child of a Michigan veteran. The veteran must have been a legal resident of this state immediately before entering military service and must not later have resided outside of Michigan for more than two years, or the veteran must have established legal residency in Michigan after entering military service. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Children of Veterans Tuition Grant, the veteran must:

• Have been killed in action or died from another cause while serving in a war or war condition in which the U.S. was or is participating; or

• Have died or become totally and permanently disabled as a result of a service-connected illness

or injury as determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; or

• Have been totally and permanently disabled as a result of a service-connected illness or injury prior to death and now has died; or

• Be listed as MIA (missing in action) in a foreign country as determined

by the U.S. government. To be eligible for the Children of Veterans Tuition Grant, the student must:

• Enroll at least half-time at a Michigan community college, public university, or independent degree-granting college or university.

• Be a Michigan resident for one year prior to program application.


• For renewal, maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.25.

• Not have been convicted of a felony involving an assault, physical injury, or death.

Application Procedure Application forms may be downloaded from the Office of Scholarships and Grants’ Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid, or a student may request an application be mailed by calling 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687). Award Amount CVTG awards are $2,800 per academic year for full-time students, $2,100 for three-quarter-time students, $1,400 for half-time students, or an amount equal to all of the student’s eligible tuition in that academic year, whichever is less. Students may receive scholarship assistance for up to four academic years and a maximum of $11,200. Future awards are subject to available and approved funding. For additional information about the Children of Veterans Tuition Grant, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid.


Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) This is an incentive program that encourages eligible students to complete high school by providing tuition assistance for the first two years of college and beyond. The program targets students with financial need, so students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA. This program assists students in two phases: Phase I – Pays tuition and mandatory fees for eligible students who are enrolled in an associate’s degree or certificate program at a participating Michigan community college, public university, independent, nonprofit degree-granting college, federal tribally controlled college, or FOCUS: HOPE. Phase II – Pays tuition and mandatory fees for credits earned in a four-year program at a Michigan degree-granting college or university. A student does not have to receive Phase I benefits to be eligible for Phase II benefits. However, if starting at a Phase II school, the student will not be able to receive TIP benefits until the junior year. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Tuition Incentive Program, the student must:

• Have (or have had) Medicaid coverage for 24 months within a 36-consecutive-month period as identified by the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS). This can happen as early as the sixth grade, typically age 12 or after.

• Submit a copy of their “eligibility letter” from the Office of Scholarships and Grants to the financial

aid office of the college or university the student will be attending.

• Graduate from high school or obtain a GED prior to age 20.

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. • Be a Michigan resident as determined by institutional criteria.

• Enroll at least half-time in a program for a maximum of 80 semester

or 120 term credits. • Meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.

• Not have defaulted on a federal student loan and/or unless

satisfactory arrangements have been made to repay the loan.

• Meet the additional Phase I requirement of initiating enrollment within four years of high school graduation or GED completion.


• Meet the additional Phase II requirements of having:

At least 56 transferable semester credits or 84 term credits.

or

An associate’s degree or certificate. Application Procedure The Office of Scholarships and Grants will send an application form to the home of each student identified as eligible by the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS). The student must then complete the application form and return it to the Office of Scholarships and Grants before graduation from high school or GED completion and before their 20th birthday to activate financial eligibility for the program. Only then will the student receive an “eligibility letter.” NOTE: Identified students are encouraged to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

even though it is not necessary for establishing TIP eligibility. By filing the FAFSA, students will be considered for other federal and state financial aid programs and, if eligible, can use those additional funds to cover other educational expenses such as books, supplies, transportation, or room and board.

Award Amount Phase I covers the cost of tuition and mandatory fees. The program will pay up to a maximum of 24 semester or 36 term credits per academic year. The total program maximum is 80 semester or 120 term credits. The cost of tuition is the current in-district rate at participating Michigan community colleges. Students residing in an area that is not included in a community college district may be authorized at the out-of-district rate. For students attending participating Michigan public universities, the cost of tuition is the lower-level resident rate. The maximum amount covered per credit hour is currently $84 for students attending independent, nonprofit degree-granting colleges, federal tribally controlled colleges, or FOCUS: HOPE. Note: the amount changes each academic year. Phase II covers tuition and mandatory fees not to exceed $500 per semester or $400 per term up to the program maximum of $2,000. Mandatory fees for both Phase I and Phase II cannot exceed $250 per semester/term and are defined as “only those fees that are charged to all students across the board as a requirement for enrollment at the institution.” Covered fees include student activity and registration fees. No college admission or course-specific fees are covered. For additional information about the Tuition Incentive Program including a complete list of participating Phase I and Phase II institutions, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid.


Education and Training Voucher (ETV) The ETV program provides financial assistance to help youth in foster care pay for training or education beyond high school. A youth is eligible until his/her 21st birthday as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. If the youth participated in the program before his/her 21st birthday, they continue to be eligible until age 23 as long as they receive and maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average (GPA). Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Education and Training Voucher program, the student must:

• Have been in foster care on or after his/her 14th birthday because of abuse or neglect and if they have been adopted from foster care on or after his/her 16th birthday;

• Have a high school diploma or GED; and

• Be enrolled at an accredited school that:

Awards a bachelor’s degree or not less than a two-year program that provides credit towards

a degree,

Provides no less than one-year of training towards gainful employment, or

Is a vocational program that provides training for gainful employment and has been in existence for at least two years.

Application Procedure For information on applying, contact the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS) Central Office at 1-517-241-8904, Lutheran Social Services of Michigan at 1-877-660-6388, or online at www.mietv.lssm.org. Students applying for the ETV must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Students will receive a letter notifying them of their award after all application materials have been submitted and processed. Any money owed to the school for tuition and other costs will be sent directly to the school. Additional checks will be written to the landlord, insurance company, and any other vendors, etc. and mailed to the student who is responsible for making sure the payment goes to the appropriate person or company. Award Amount The ETV program provides up to $5,000 per year to a student enrolled in an accredited college/university or other training program. Qualifying expenses include: tuition and fees, room and board, student loans, books and supplies, transportation, personal computer/supplies, and miscellaneous personal expenses including health care and child care. Award amounts are subject to available and approved funding. For additional information about the ETV program, contact Lutheran Social Services of Michigan, 209 East Washington Street, Suite 284, Jackson, Michigan 49201, or 1-877-660-6388.


Police Officer’s and Fire Fighter’s Survivor Tuition Act This act provides for the waiver of tuition at public community colleges and state universities for the surviving spouse and children of Michigan police officers and fire fighters killed in the line of duty. Tuition is waived for eligible survivors enrolled in classes leading to a certificate or undergraduate degree. The deceased police officer must have been a sheriff or a sheriff deputy, village or township marshal, a police officer of any city, village, or township, an officer of the State Police, or any other police officer trained and certified pursuant to the Commission on Law Enforcement Standards Act. The deceased fire fighter must have been a member, volunteer or paid, of a fire department or other organization that provides fire suppression or other fire-related services to a city, township, village, or county which is responsible for extinguishment of fires. This does not include a person whose job description, duties, or responsibilities did not include direct involvement in fire suppression. The death must have been the direct and proximate result of traumatic injury incurred in the line of duty. Traumatic injury is defined as a wound or condition of the body caused by external force including but not limited to an injury inflicted by a bullet, explosive, sharp instrument, blunt object, or other physical blow, fire, smoke, chemical, electricity, climatic condition, infectious disease, radiation, or bacteria, excluding injury resulting from stress, strain, or occupational disease. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Police Officer’s and Fire Fighter’s Survivor Tuition Act, the applicant (spouse or child) must:

• Be the spouse or child, natural or adopted, of a Michigan police officer or fire fighter who was killed in the line of duty.

• Be admitted full-time, part-time, or to summer school in a program leading to a certificate or

degree at a Michigan public community college or state university. • Be a legal resident of Michigan for 12 consecutive months preceding application. • Provide satisfactory evidence to the Michigan Department of State Police that the applicant is an

eligible child or surviving spouse of a police officer or fire fighter killed in the line of duty.

• Meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy for each enrolled term or semester.

• Not have received a bachelor’s degree.

The child must:

• Be less than age 21 at the time of death of the police officer or fire fighter. • Apply for the first time before age 21.

For additional information about the Police Officer’s and Fire Fighter’s Survivor Tuition Act, contact the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards at 1-517-322-3968, or visit the Web site at www.mcoles.org and click on “Law Enforcement Resources.”


Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) Michigan Rehabilitation Services assists eligible Michigan citizens with physical or mental disabilities to prepare for, enter, and maintain employment. Eligible individuals who are not able to use existing job skills due to a disability or are entering the workforce for the first time may receive financial assistance for education or training. If individuals have an approved plan for employment that includes postsecondary training, MRS can provide funds for basic costs of training such as tuition, fees, and books. Financial support for education may be provided only when the student’s financial aid and Expected Family Contribution (EFC) do not fully meet the student’s academic budget. If the student does not have insurance and there are no other resources available, MRS can also provide financial support with other disability-related expenses such as personal assistance services, assistive technology, and sensory aids. MRS assists with job placement when the student’s training program is completed. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for Michigan Rehabilitation Services education assistance, the student must:

• Have a physical or mental disability that makes it difficult to work (for example: amputation, learning problems, cerebral palsy, heart disease, deafness, emotional problems, spinal cord injury, or substance abuse) and require vocational rehabilitation services in order to work.

• Have an approved individualized plan for employment that includes education or training

services.

• Be a resident of the state of Michigan. MRS is part of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth and has offices throughout the state. For additional information and a listing of MRS district offices, call 1-800-605-6722 (1-888-605-6722 for TTY users), or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/mrs.


PROGRAMS FOR NATIVE AMERICANS Michigan Indian Tuition Waiver In 1976 the Michigan Legislature enacted Public Act 174, “an act to provide free tuition for North American Indians,” in public colleges and universities in the state. This legislation is most commonly known as the “Comstock Agreement.” Eligibility Criteria

• Students must be not less than one-quarter Native American heritage as certified by the applicant’s tribal affiliation (Federal or State Historic Tribe).

• Student must be a legal Michigan resident for not less than 12 consecutive months and must

provide adequate proof of Michigan residency.

• Students must attend a public community college or university. For additional information write to the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan, Inc., 2956 Ashmun Street, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan 49783, call 1-800-562-4957, or visit the Web site at www.itcmi.org. Bureau of Indian Affairs The U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs, provides assistance to those students who are enrolled tribal members regardless of their degree of Indian blood based on financial need as recommended by an accredited college or university financial aid office. To contact the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Office of Indian Education Programs, call 1-202-208-6156, or visit the Web site at www.oiep.bia.edu.


FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS The application process for each of the following federal programs is the same. Students must complete and file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For additional information on most of these programs, please refer to Funding Education Beyond High School: The Guide to Federal Student Aid 2007-08 published by the U.S. Department of Education. This free publication is available at high schools, college financial aid offices, by calling 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243), or at www.studentaid.ed.gov. Funding and program requirements for all federal programs are subject to legislative changes. Refer to the above Web site for the most up-to-date information. Federal Pell Grant Program This is a grant program for undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need and have not yet completed a bachelor’s or professional degree. The minimum award is $400 and the current maximum award is $4,731 per academic year. Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG) Program and National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant Program The ACG and the SMART Grant were established by the federal government in 2006. The grants are intended to encourage students to take a rigorous program of study in high school and to pursue college majors in science, math, technology, engineering, and languages determined critical to national security. The grant funds will be awarded to eligible students to assist with payment of their college tuition and fees. Rigorous Program of Study To be eligible for either grant, students must complete a rigorous program of study in high school. The college or university the student attends is required to certify that the student has met this requirement based on documentation (e.g. academic transcripts) provided by the high school principal, guidance counselor, academic advisor, or the student. The rigorous program of study must be similar to one of the following options:

• Michigan Scholars - This program, part of the national State Scholars Initiative and patterned after the recommendations of the National Commission on Excellence in Education, requires at least:

Four credits in English (English I-IV); Three credits in math (Algebra I, Algebra II, and geometry); Three credits in science (biological science, physical science, and chemistry); Three credits in social studies (world history, economics, American history, U.S.

Government); Two credits in a language other than English: Plus district graduation requirements.

http://www.studentaid.ed.gov/


• A set of courses similar to the State Scholars Initiative - This program of study requires passing grades in the following courses:

Four years of English; Three years of mathematics (including Algebra I, and

a higher level course such as Algebra II, geometry, or data analysis and statistics);

Three years of science (including at least two courses from biology, chemistry, or physics);

Three years of social studies; and One year of a foreign language.

• Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses and Test Scores -

This program requires a minimum of:

Two AP or IB courses in high school and a minimum passing score on the exams for those classes.

A score of three or higher on AP exams and four or higher on IB exams.

• Michigan Merit Standard Curriculum - This program requires:

Four credits of English; Four credits of math (including Algebra I, Algebra II, geometry, and one credit in the senior

year); Three credits of science (including biology, physics, or chemistry, and one additional science

credit); Three years of social studies (U.S. History and Geography, World History and Geography,

Economics [half credit] and Civics [half credit]); One credit of physical education and health; One credit of visual, performing, or applied arts; and One online learning course or experience. Links to credit expectations and guidance:

www.michigan.gov/highschool Transfer Student Eligibility

Transfer students are eligible to receive ACG or SMART Grant funds provided the student meets all eligibility requirements. The institution the student is transferring to may rely on the prior institution’s documentation that the student completed a rigorous high school program of study. The student’s receipt of an ACG award from a prior institution may be used as documentation. Home Schooled Student Eligibility Home schooled students are eligible to be awarded the ACG as long as a rigorous program of study can be documented and the student meets all other eligibility requirements. The same requirements apply to the student’s eligibility for receiving the SMART Grant. Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG) Program The ACG Program is available to students during their first and second academic years of an eligible undergraduate program of study.

www.michigan.gov/highschool


Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Academic Competitiveness Grant, the student must:

• Have completed a rigorous high school program of study. • Have graduated from high school.

• Be a U.S. citizen.

• File the FAFSA. • Demonstrate financial need.

• Be eligible to receive a Pell Grant.

• Be enrolled as a full-time first- or second-year student in a

two-year or four-year degree program.

• Have achieved a high grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 to receive a second-year grant. Award Amount ACG award amounts differ in the first and second years. The maximum award in the first year of study is $750; in the second year the maximum award is $1,300. ACG is awarded in addition to any Pell Grant funds the student receives. National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent (SMART) Grant Program The SMART Grant is available to students during their third and fourth academic years of an eligible undergraduate program of study. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant, the student must:

• Have completed a rigorous high school program of study.

• Be a U.S. citizen.

• File the FAFSA. • Demonstrate financial need.

• Be eligible to receive a Pell Grant.

• Be enrolled full-time in an eligible undergraduate program of

study.

• Be enrolled in a four-year degree program.

• Have a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0.


• Be pursuing a major in any of the following fields of study:

Physical, life, or computer sciences; Mathematics; Technology; Engineering; or Foreign languages determined critical to national

security. *Check the federal Web site as other majors may be added. Award Amount The maximum SMART Grant award amount is $4,000 and may be awarded in each of the third and fourth years. The SMART Grant is awarded in addition to any Pell Grant funds the student receives. For additional information about the ACG or SMART Grant programs, go to the federal government Web site at www.studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/grants.jsp. Also, information on the Michigan Merit Standard Curriculum may be found at www.michigan.gov/mde; in the search box type in: “Michigan Merit Standard Curriculum.” TEACH Grant Program The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program is a non-need-based grant program that provides up to $4,000 per year to students who are enrolled in an eligible program. Grant recipients agree to teach in a high-need field at a low-income elementary or secondary school for at least four years within eight years of completing the program for which the TEACH Grant was awarded. If the grant recipient fails to complete the required teaching service, the TEACH Grant is treated as a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loan (Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan). The student must then repay this loan to the U.S. Department of Education. The student will be charged interest from the date the grant was disbursed. The first TEACH Grants will be awarded to eligible students for the 2008–09 school year. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible to receive a TEACH Grant a student must:

• Complete the FAFSA, although a student does not have to demonstrate financial need.

• Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.

• Be enrolled as an undergraduate, post-

baccalaureate, or graduate student in a postsecondary educational institution that has chosen to participate in the TEACH Grant Program.

www.studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/grants.jsp

http://www.michigan.gov/mde


• Be enrolled in coursework that is necessary to begin a career in teaching or plan to complete such coursework. Such coursework may include subject area courses (e.g., math courses for a student who intends to be a math teacher).

• Meet certain academic achievement requirements (generally, scoring above the 75th percentile on

a college admissions test or maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25).

• Sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve (see below for more information on the TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve).

High-Need Field High-need fields are the specific areas identified below:

• Bilingual Education and English Language Acquisition

• Foreign Language • Mathematics • Reading Specialist • Science • Special Education • Other identified teacher shortage areas as of the time

you begin teaching in that field. These are teacher subject shortage areas (not geographic areas) that are listed in the Department of Education’s Annual Teacher Shortage Area Nationwide Listing found at www.ed.gov/about/offices/ope/pol/tsa.doc.

TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve Each year receiving the grant, the student must sigh a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve that will be available electronically on a U.S. Department of Education Web site. The TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve specifies the conditions under which the grant will be awarded, the teaching service requirements, and includes an acknowledgement that the recipient understands he/she must meet the terms of the teaching service requirements or the grant becomes a Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan. The TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve will require the following:

• For each TEACH Grant-eligible program for which a recipient receives funds, the recipient must serve as a full-time teacher for a total of at least four academic years within eight calendar years after completing or withdrawing from the academic program for which the TEACH Grant funds were received.

• The recipient must perform the teaching service as a highly-qualified teacher at a low-income

school. The term highly-qualified teacher is defined in section 910(23) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 or in section 602(10) of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act.

• The teaching service must be in a high-need field.

• Comply with any other requirements that the U.S. Department of Education determines to be

necessary. For additional information about the TEACH Grant Program, contact the financial aid office at the college or university the student plans to attend.

http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/ope/pol/tsa.doc


Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) This grant provides funds to undergraduate students with exceptional financial need. Priority consideration is given to Federal Pell Grant recipients. The minimum award amount is $100 and the current maximum is $4,000 per academic year. Federal Work-Study (FWS) Participating schools annually receive funding to administer the Federal Work-Study program. This program provides part-time employment for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need to assist with paying for educational expenses. Community service and work related to the student’s course of study are emphasized to the extent possible. Jobs are available both on and off campus. Federal Loans Loans are “borrowed” money that must be repaid with interest. Students are encouraged to think carefully about the amount borrowed. Loans must be repaid with interest. It can take many years to repay the loan.

• Federal Perkins Loans – Federal Perkins loans are made through participating colleges and universities to students who are undergraduate, graduate, or professional students. Students must demonstrate financial need (Federal Pell Grant recipients get top priority). An undergraduate student may borrow a maximum of $4,000 per academic year and a maximum of $20,000 as an undergraduate. A graduate or professional student may borrow up to $6,000 per academic year and a maximum of $40,000 including undergraduate loans. The interest rate is five percent.

• Federal Stafford and PLUS Loans – Federal Stafford and PLUS loans are made through one of

two U.S. Department of Education programs: Federal Direct Loan Program – Referred to as Direct

Stafford loans, Direct PLUS loans, or Direct loans. Eligible students and parents borrow directly from the U.S. Department of Education at participating schools. Students repay these loans directly to the federal government.

Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program –

Referred to as FFEL Stafford loans, Federal Stafford loans, FFEL PLUS loans, or Federal PLUS loans. Private lenders provide funds that are guaranteed by the federal government. Students repay these loans to the bank or private lender that made the loan.

Whether the student (or the parent) receives a Direct or FFEL loan depends on which program the attended college or university participates in. Most schools participate in one program or the other, although some schools participate in both. It is possible for the student to receive Direct and FFEL loans but not both types for the same period of enrollment.


Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan – This loan is for undergraduate or graduate students who demonstrate need. The federal government pays the interest on the loan until the borrower begins repayment and during deferment periods. The interest rate is fixed at 6.0 percent. Currently the maximum amounts are: $3,500 for the first year, $4,500 for the second year, and $5,500 for the third and fourth years of college. The total aggregate amount a dependent undergraduate student may borrow is $23,000. For independent undergraduate students, the amount is $46,000.

Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan – This loan is non-need-based and is available for

undergraduate or graduate students. The maximum amount borrowed per year is the same for an undergraduate subsidized loan, however, students may be able to borrow loan funds beyond their subsidized loan limit. Interest is charged from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full. The student is responsible for interest (fixed at 6.8 percent) payments while in school and during repayment.

Maximum Annual Loan Limits - Subsidized and Unsubsidized Direct and FFEL Stafford Loans

Maximum Annual Amounts

Dependent Students Whose Parent Can Borrow PLUS Loans

Dependent Students Whose Parent Cannot Borrow PLUS Loans and

Independent Students Borrower’s Academic Level Base Amount Additional

Unsubsidized Base Amount Additional

Unsubsidized First-Year Undergraduate

$3,500 $2,000 $3,500 $6,000

Second-Year Undergraduate

$4,500 $2,000 $4,500 $6,000

Third-Year & Remaining Undergraduate

$5,500

$2,000

$5,500

$7,000

Graduate or Professional Student

NA $8,500 $12,000

Federal PLUS Loan – Parents with good credit history may borrow this loan on behalf of their

dependent student to assist in paying for educational expenses. Parents may borrow an amount not to exceed the difference between the cost of attendance minus any other financial aid the student receives. For PLUS loans made to parents that are first disbursed on or after July 1, 2008, borrowers now have the option of beginning repayment on the PLUS loan either 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed or not until six months after the dependent student on whose behalf the parent borrowed ceases to be enrolled on at least a half-time basis. The interest that accrues on the loan prior to the delayed repayment start date may be paid, at the option of the borrower, either monthly or quarterly, or may be capitalized no more frequently than quarterly. Parent PLUS borrowers should contact their lender regarding the repayment plan they wish to follow.

Federal Grad PLUS Loan – The Federal PLUS loan, which was previously only for parents

of undergraduate students, is now available to graduate and professional students. This new program is called the Federal Grad PLUS Loan Program. Students with good credit history


may borrow up to the cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received. The interest rate is a fixed rate of 8.5 percent for FFEL Grad PLUS loans and 7.9 percent for Direct Grad PLUS loans. If a student wishes to defer their loan payment while they are still in school, then they must contact their lender for approval.

Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship This is a federally funded merit program that is administered at the state level. The scholarship program provides approximately 280 awards per year to Michigan high school graduating seniors who have achieved superior academic records. The award amount is $1,500 and is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate studies as long as the federal government continues to appropriate funds for the program and the student remains eligible. Recipients may use their award at any degree-granting college or university in the United States that participates in the federal student aid programs. Students do not apply for this award and do not need to file the FAFSA; instead, each Michigan school principal may nominate one outstanding senior. The student nominated will be the student with the highest grade point average and the highest ACT or SAT score combined using a mathematical formula. The financial resources of the family are not considered in determining eligibility. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship, the student must:

• Have a high school diploma or GED certificate. • Be a Michigan resident. • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. • Be enrolled as a full-time student at a degree-

granting college or university in the United States.

• Register with Selective Service if applicable.

• Meet the institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy. • Not be in default on a federal student loan.

Home schooled students and students entering U.S. Military Academies are not eligible for consideration. For additional information about the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship, contact the Office of Scholarships and Grants at 1-888-4-GRANTS (1-888-447-2687), by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid.

mailto:[email protected]


Special/Federal Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (S/LEAP) This program provides federal matching funds to states that administer need-based student financial assistance programs. In Michigan, LEAP funds are added to the state funds appropriated for the Michigan Competitive Scholarship program. Students do not apply directly for funds from this program; rather, LEAP funds are distributed as a result of students completing the FAFSA and qualifying for the Michigan Competitive Scholarship. For additional information about the Federal Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership, refer to the Michigan Competitive Scholarship program under the Michigan Financial Aid Programs section of this publication. Youth in Transition (YIT) This is a federally funded program administered by the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS). It is designed to assist adolescents who are in foster care or were formerly in foster care to develop the skills needed to lead independent adult lives once they are living on their own. YIT provides assistance in obtaining vocational training and postsecondary education and is a funding source available to cover expenses NOT covered by other government or community resources. Educational support is provided in the following areas:

• Assistance in obtaining a high school diploma, vocational training, and postsecondary education (college/trade school)

• GED preparation and testing

• Tutoring services

• Vocational placement

• Career planning

• College resources

• Special tuition

• Books

• Assistance in accessing Pell Grants, Tuition Incentive Program (TIP), scholarships, student loans,

and the Educational Training Voucher (ETV) Eligibility Criteria

• Michigan youth who are active in the foster care system, placed out of their home based on abuse and neglect, starting at age 14 and up to age 21.

• Michigan youth ages 18 to 21 that were in foster care on or after their 18th birthday but are no

longer under DHS supervision.


Application Procedure

• Youth with open cases may access funds through their foster care case manager. • Youth with a closed case must apply for closed case services (YIT) in the current county of

residence through the local DHS office. For additional information about the YIT program, contact the YIT office at 1-517-241-8904, by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/dhs and click on “Foster Care,” then “Youth Programs,” and then “Youth in Transition.” Federal Health and Human Services (HHS) Programs There are a variety of financial assistance programs available to students going into selected health careers. These programs are administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Funds are awarded directly to schools and the schools are responsible for managing and awarding funds to eligible students. Schools must follow the requirements specified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Available student financial assistance programs are:

• Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students (SDS)

• Loans for Disadvantaged Students

• Health Professions Student Loans (HPSL)

• Primary Care Loans

• Nursing Student Loans (NSL)

• Nursing Scholarship

• National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Scholarships For additional information about these programs, contact the college financial aid office or visit the Bureau of Health Professions’ Web site at www.bhpr.hrsa.gov/dsa. Carl D. Perkins Career and Technology Education Act of 2006 This act enables Michigan community colleges to provide tuition assistance and support services to eligible students. This program is targeted to single parents, single pregnant women, displaced homemakers, non-traditional career students, and other special populations. Financial assistance may be provided for tuition, textbooks, childcare, and transportation costs. Awards are based on the availability of funds. Federal guidelines require that those with the greatest need will be given priority for scholarships.


http://www.michigan.gov.dhs/

http://www.bhpr.hrsa.gov/dsa


Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Carl D. Perkins grant, the applicant must:

• Be a single pregnant woman or a single parent who:

Is unmarried (i.e., divorced, widowed, or never married) or separated from a spouse.

and

Has a minor child or children for whom the parent has either custody or joint custody OR

• Be an adult who has worked primarily without pay to care for the home and family, has diminished marketable skills, and is unemployed or under-employed, AND

• Be a displaced homemaker (i.e., homemaker, unemployed, or under-employed) who:

Has been dependent on the income of a relative but is no

longer supported by such income,

or

Because of divorce, separation, or the death or disability of a spouse must prepare for paid employment,

or

Has been receiving public assistance.

• Be a woman or man who wishes to seek employment in an occupation that traditionally has been underrepresented by their gender. Applicants who are members of this population group must declare an approved non-traditional vocational program/curriculum.

• Be an adult who has limited ability in speaking, reading, writing, or understanding the English

language, and whose native language is a language other than English.

• Be an individual who has documented disabilities related to hearing, speech, vision, learning, mobility, psychiatric function, or substance abuse. Also, an individual who has documented health-related impairments such as diabetes, epilepsy, heart disease, cancer, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, hemophilia, or are HIV positive.

• Be an individual from an economically disadvantaged family

including foster children, Pell Grant or other financial assistance recipients, or migrants.

• Apply for a Federal Pell Grant by completing the FAFSA.

For additional information about the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technology Education Act of 2006, contact the financial aid office at the community college or approved four-year institution the student plans to attend.


Military Tuition Support Programs Educational benefits and incentives are available for veterans (and survivors and dependents of deceased veterans) who have served in the U.S. military. There are four main initiatives that make up the Military Tuition Support Programs:

• Tuition Assistance – Pays up to 100 percent of the cost of tuition or expenses up to a maximum of $250 per semester credit and a personal maximum of $4,500 per fiscal year per student.

• Montgomery G.I. Bill – Offers up to $39,636 in tuition as a

benefit for a three-year commitment to full-time duty. Servicemen contribute $100 a month for a year. In return, they receive $1,101 per month for three years.

• College Fund Programs – Enlistees who become eligible for their College Fund Programs

receive up to $70,000 towards college tuition when combined with the Montgomery G.I. Bill and upon honorable discharge.

• Loan Repayment Programs – Graduating college students may qualify to have the military

repay up to $70,000 (depending on the branch of service). • The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2008 – The Post-9/11 GI Bill is a new

benefit providing educational assistance to individuals who served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001. Visit www.GIBILL.va.gov for up-to-date information on this program.

For additional information about the Military Tuition Support Programs, please visit the Web site at http://www.todaysmilitary.com/app/tm/get/collegehelp/support. Additional information regarding the Montgomery G.I. Bill may be obtained by writing to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Regional Office (for Michigan veterans), P.O. Box 66830, St. Louis, MO 63166-6830, by calling 1-888-442-4551, or by visiting the Web site at www.gibill.va.gov. Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and Michigan National Guard The Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program was created to train students to become military officers while completing their college education. All branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, except the U.S. Coast Guard, have an ROTC program. Each branch of the service offers ROTC scholarships to eligible students to help pay tuition and other expenses while in college. For more information on the scholarship programs please visit the Web site at www.rotc.com or contact the college or university you are planning to attend to see if they offer an ROTC program. Tuition grants and tuition reimbursement programs are available for members of the Michigan National Guard. For more information or to request an application, please contact the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs at 1-517-481-7646 or visit the Web site at www.mi.ngb.army.mil and click on “Education Benefits.”

http://www.gibill.va.gov/

http://www.todaysmilitary.com/app/tm/get/collegehelp/support

http://www.gibill.va.gov/

http://www.rotc.com/

http://www.mi.ngb.army.mil/


Education Tax Credits The IRS offers two tax credits to help students and parents offset the costs of higher education. The Hope Tax Credit and the Lifetime Learning Tax Credit reduce the amount of income tax an individual may have to pay. This is different than a deduction as a credit directly reduces the tax itself. It is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in an individual’s final tax liability.

• Hope Tax Credit – The benefit of the Hope Tax Credit is that an individual may be able to claim a credit of up to $1,650 for qualified education expenses paid for each eligible student. The amount of the Hope Tax Credit may be limited by the amount of the individual’s income and the amount of the individual’s tax. It is available for first- and second-year students enrolled at least half-time.

• Lifetime Learning Tax Credit – The Lifetime Learning Tax Credit is a tax benefit equal to

20 percent of a family’s tuition expenses, up to $10,000, for virtually any postsecondary education and training. This tax credit applies to undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. Students may be enrolled less than half-time.

Comparison of education credits:

Hope Tax Credit Lifetime Learning Tax Credit

Up to $1,650 credit per eligible student. Up to $2,000 credit per return.

Available ONLY until the first two years of postsecondary education are completed.

Available for all years of postsecondary education and for courses to acquire or improve job skills.

Available ONLY for two years per eligible student. Available for an unlimited number of years.

Student must be pursuing an undergraduate degree or other recognized education credential.

Student does not need to be pursuing a degree or other recognized education credential.

Student must be enrolled at least half-time for at least one academic period beginning during the year. Available for one or more courses.

No felony drug conviction on student’s record. Felony drug conviction rule does not apply.

For additional information about the Hope Tax Credit and the Lifetime Learning Tax Credit, as well as other tax benefits for postsecondary students, call 1-800-829-1040 (1-800-829-4059 for TTY) and ask for IRS Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Higher Education, or visit the Web site at www.irs.gov or www.irs.gov/publications/p970/ch02.html.

http://www.irs.gov/

www.irs.gov/publications/p970/ch02.html


SEARCHING FOR SCHOLARSHIPS Everyone needs money for college. While searching for it may seem illusive at times, take heart – financial assistance is available. An often-seen statement is that “billions of dollars in privately funded scholarship awards go unused because students and families do not know of the availability or where to apply.” While the claim of “billions of dollars” has not been substantiated, it is true that some scholarship dollars are not awarded because people don’t apply. It takes a great deal of persistence to search for scholarship monies that are outside the realm of the state and federal governments and colleges and universities. However, possibilities exist for students who know what the search involves and how to maximize the potential for positive results. Go the Traditional Route First Upon acceptance to a college, check with the college admissions office about scholarships. Also check with the college financial aid office for a comprehensive listing of all types of aid the institution has for its students including scholarships offered by the department of the student’s major field of study. Conduct a Web search of private foundations as many of them sponsor college scholarships promoting the foundation’s specific interests. Apply for local scholarships such as those sponsored by organizations in the student’s surrounding community or state. Typically the pool of applicants is smaller which increases the chance of being selected as an award recipient. Students should contact their high school guidance counselor for a list of locally sponsored scholarships. Explore funding through community sources and private agencies. Consider the following:

• Determine possible academic majors, then contact professional organizations pertaining to the academic major for information about awards available for postsecondary education.

• Check with local businesses and the parent’s/guardian’s places of employment for scholarships.

• Check with local civic and social clubs or organizations for scholarships.

Scholarship Search Services Searching for scholarships other than those awarded by the federal government, state government, or colleges and universities is typically a tedious process. It is up to the student to contact the sources sponsoring the scholarships, obtain the application, write the essay, gather the necessary letters of recommendation, and meet the application deadline. The following are tips for conducting a scholarship search:

• Start searching and apply early in the student’s junior year of high school.


• Apply for the scholarships that most fit the student’s talents, skills, achievements, and interests.

• Be organized.

• Be mindful of deadlines and meet them.

• Write the required essay and have someone else read it for clarity

and proofread it for grammar and punctuation.

• Follow the process through to completion. The Application Process Online scholarship search services help students locate scholarships, grants, and fellowships that are found separate from federal, state, and institutional sources. This is a personalized search that links the student to a scholarship database. The search service will conduct a matching process of the student’s personal profile to the award criteria set by the sponsoring organization of the scholarship or grant. The student profile is a questionnaire requesting information about the student’s background and interests. Examples of the information requested are:

• High school activities • Community or voluntary service involvement

• Academic or career interests

• ACT/SAT score

• Grade point average, etc.

After submitting the profile online, the student will receive a list of the scholarships or grants for which they are eligible to apply, or have been matched with, based on the information provided on the questionnaire and qualifying award criteria. Next, the student needs to sort through the list, and go online and read the qualifying criteria for the awards. It is recommended that the student first apply for the scholarships with the qualifying criteria that they most closely meet. This will help the student focus on the scholarships they have a better chance of receiving. Many of the awards require that the student write an essay. Hopefully, the closer the match, the easier it will be for the student to write an essay about a topic on which they are knowledgeable or are interested. Scholarship search databases contain hundreds of thousands of scholarship and grant resources to which the student could potentially be matched. Remember that these databases are available to students throughout the nation. Thus, it is very important that students be mindful of meeting the application requirements and the submission deadlines. Not completing the application or missing the submission deadline will eliminate a student who would otherwise qualify.

Scholarship Search Web Sites The following list represents a few of the potentially useful scholarship search Web sites where students may conduct a scholarship search. This is not an exhaustive list of Web sites. However, these sites have been operating for quite some time without legal problems. Some of them use the same database of scholarship information, and some of them have links to other financial aid-related sites. In addition, these sites offer students and families other useful information for college planning. Finally, students need to be aware that scholarship search services are business entities, and lending institutions sponsor many of them. Therefore, students may receive information from lending institutions regarding the types of loans they offer. Students are not obligated to respond to any of these notices. Start searching today and follow all the steps toward a successful outcome.

www.michigan.gov/studentaid www.mappingyourfuture.org www.scholarshipsforhispanics.org www.uncf.org

www.internationalscholarships.com www.collegeboard.com www.thomsonpeterson.com www.fastweb.org

Scholarship Scams – “If it sounds too good to be true . . .” In the process of putting together plans to pay for college, be careful not to get involved with unscrupulous companies that use high-pressure sales techniques and methods. Remember the old adage: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” Use caution and check into the company’s business practices before giving out any personally identifying information or signing a contract. How does a student know whether or not they have received information that may constitute a scholarship scam? Following are examples of wording that the U.S. Department of Education and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) caution borrowers to be suspicious of:

• “The scholarship is guaranteed or your money back.” • “You can’t get this information anywhere else.”

• “I just need your credit card or bank account number to hold this scholarship.”

• “We’ll do all the work.”

• “The scholarship will cost some money.”

• “You’ve been selected by a ‘national foundation’ to receive a scholarship” or “You’re a finalist” in a

contest you never entered. If students or parents attend a seminar sponsored by a company offering financial aid consulting services, or a company offers to assist with searching for scholarships or with filing the FAFSA, the FTC suggests following these steps:


http://www.michigan.gov/studentaid

http://www.mapping-your-future.com/

http://www.scholarshipsforhispanics.org/

http://www.uncf.org/

http://www.internationalscholarships.com/

http://www.collegeboard.com/

http://www.thomsonpeterson.com/

http://www.fastweb.org/


• Take some time. Don’t be rushed into signing a contract or paying any money at the seminar. Avoid high-pressure sales pitches that require buying now or risk losing out on the opportunity. Solid opportunities are not sold through nerve-racking tactics.

• Investigate the organization. Talk to a guidance counselor or

financial aid advisor before spending the money. The same help may be available for free.

• Be wary of “success stories” or testimonials of extraordinary

success – the seminar will promote only those that state they are satisfied with the products and services received.

• Be cautious about purchasing from seminar representatives who

are reluctant to answer questions or who give evasive answers to questions. Legitimate business people are more than willing to give out information about their service.

• Ask how much money is charged for the service, the services that will be performed, and the

company’s refund policy. Get this information in writing. Keep in mind that despite stated refund policies, the money given to an unscrupulous operator might never be recouped.

If a student or parent thinks they have received information that could be a scam or have been contacted by someone who uses statements similar to the ones above, contact the FTC. The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers avoid them. In 2000, Congress enacted The College Scholarship Fraud Prevention Act. Together, the U.S. Department of Education, the FTC, and the Department of Justice (DOJ) continue to monitor new targets and provide educational materials to protect consumers against fraudulent practices. The FTC and the DOJ coordinate their efforts to take civil/criminal actions when appropriate. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or TTY at 1-866-653-4261, or visit the Web site at www.ftc.gov. Consumers may also check the reputation of scholarship search services or any other financial aid services by contacting the Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.com or the Michigan Attorney General’s Office at www.michigan.gov/ag.

http://www.ftc.gov/

http://www.bbb.com/

http://www.michigan.gov/ag


SUGGESTED JUNIOR YEAR COLLEGE PLANNING Now is the time to put into motion those plans you have for your future. There is a lot to be done between now and the time you graduate from high school. The planner below will help you stay on track.

SEPTEMBER Talk to your guidance counselor or teachers about the following:

Availability of and enrollment in Advanced Placement classes and Advanced Placement Exams. Schedules for the Michigan Merit Exam including the ACT Plus Writing®, and the PSAT, SAT I, SAT II.

Sign up and prepare for the exams you’ve decided to take. Ask for a preview of your academic record and profile, determine what gaps or weaknesses exist, and get suggestions on how to strengthen your candidacy for the schools in which you are interested. Register for the PSAT exam offered in October. Remember that when you take the PSAT in your junior year, the scores will count towards the National Merit Scholarship Corporation Programs. (www.nationalmerit.org) Start searching for scholarships online and ask your counselor for additional sources.

OCTOBER Take the PSAT. Narrow your list of colleges to include a few colleges with requirements at your current Grade Point Average (GPA), a few with requirements above your current GPA, and at least one with requirements below your GPA. Start researching your financial aid options. Continue searching for online and privately sponsored scholarships. Begin scheduling interviews with admissions counselors. If possible, schedule tours of the campus on the same days.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER Review your PSAT results with your counselor in order to identify your strengths and to determine the areas that you may need to improve upon. Depending on the results of your PSAT, you may want to consider signing up for an SAT preparatory course.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY Take campus tours online or in person to further narrow your list of colleges to match your personality, GPA, and test scores. Register for the March SAT (if necessary). Find out from each college the deadlines for applying for admission and which entrance exam(s) the college requires.

MARCH/APRIL Take the Michigan Merit Exam (MME) which includes the ACT Plus Writing® and if necessary, the March SAT I exam. Sign up for Advanced Placement exam(s).

MAY/JUNE Talk to teachers about writing letters of recommendation for you. Take Advanced Placement, SAT I, and SAT II tests. Add any new report cards, test scores, honors, or awards to your file. Visit colleges. Call ahead for appointments with the financial aid, admissions, and academic advisors at the college(s) in which you are most interested. Talk with students who are currently attending the college. Check your transcripts to make sure you have all the credits you need to get into your college of choice. Find out from the colleges to which you are applying whether or not they need official copies of your transcript.

JULY/AUGUST Practice writing online applications, filling out rough drafts of each application without submitting them. Review your applications, especially the essays. Ask family, friends, and teachers to review your essays for grammar, punctuation, readability, and content. Decide if you are going to apply under a particular college’s early decision or early action programs. This requires you to submit your application early, typically between October and December of your senior year, but offers the benefit of receiving the college’s decision concerning your admission early, usually before January 1.


SUGGESTED SENIOR YEAR COLLEGE PLANNING Your senior year of high school is a busy time with lots to do to make sure you are ready for your first day as a college freshman. This planner will help you track the steps that will lead you to your goal.

SEPTEMBER Check your transcript to make sure you have all the credits you need to get into your college of choice. Find out from the colleges to which you are applying whether or not they need official copies of your transcript. Register for October/November SAT I and SAT II tests. Most early decision applications are due between October 1 and November 1.

OCTOBER Make a final list of schools that interest you and keep a file of deadlines and required admission items for each school. Take SAT test. Have the official scores sent by the testing agency to the colleges/universities that have made your final list of schools. Continue searching for scholarships online; look for other privately sponsored scholarships and ask your counselor. Register for December or January SAT I and/or SAT II tests.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER Submit your college admission applications. Early decision replies usually arrive between December 1 and December 31. If you haven’t already done so, make sure your official test scores are being sent to the colleges to which you are applying. Schedule any remaining required interviews.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY Complete and submit your college financial aid application and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) between January 1 and March 1, and check for other financial aid options. To fill out the FAFSA, visit www.fafsa.ed.gov. Find out if any of the colleges you list on the FAFSA require the CSS Profile financial aid form. Make sure your parents have completed their income tax forms in anticipation of filling out the financial aid applications. If they have not completed their taxes, initially providing estimated figures is acceptable, but actual figures will be required. Request that your high school send your official transcript to the colleges to which you are applying.

If you completed a paper FAFSA you should receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) within six weeks. If you filed electronically you should receive your SAR within 7-10 days. Complete your scholarship applications. Contact the financial aid office of the college(s) to which you have applied to make sure that your information has been received and that they have everything they need from you.

MARCH/APRIL You will start hearing from colleges as to whether or not you have been accepted. Compare your acceptance letters, financial aid awards, and scholarship offers. Respond as required, by deadlines.

MAY/JUNE Take Advanced Placement (AP) exams for any AP subjects you studied in high school. You should make a decision by May 1 as to which college you will be attending and notify the school by mailing your commitment deposit check. Have your high school counselor send your final transcript to the college you will be attending. Contact your college to determine when fees for tuition and room and board are due and how much they will be.

JULY/AUGUST Participate in any summer orientation programs for incoming freshmen. Most collegs offer orientation for parents, too.


PARENTS: HELP YOUR CHILD PREPARE FOR COLLEGE

There are a number of things that you, as a parent, can do to facilitate your child’s goal of a successful college experience. Help your child prepare early for college by:

Guiding them to take the right junior high and high school courses based on the type of school they wish to attend after high school.

Encouraging them to maintain good grades throughout their high school experience.

Working with them to decide on the right college or university by researching the institution’s curriculum, size, type, and affordability. Parents should also encourage campus visits.

Helping them obtain and complete admission applications.

Assisting them with essays and preparing for admission interviews.

Saving for college and learning about the financial aid available.

Facilitating the processing of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by reporting all required financial information.

Parents:

Attend a college fair or financial aid presentation before your

child is ready to attend college.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Ability-to-Benefit: The basis on which a student without a high school diploma, a recognized equivalent, or a GED certificate may qualify for federal student aid. The U.S. Department of Education maintains a list of tests approved for measuring a student’s ability-to-benefit from the educational program in which the student wants to participate. The test must be administered before the school admits the student. Academic Year: A period of time schools use to measure a quantity of study. For example, a school's academic year may consist of a fall and spring semester during which a student must complete 24 semester hours. Academic years vary from school to school and even from educational program to educational program at the same school. Achievement Tests: Standardized tests required by some colleges to measure student achievement in specific areas of study such as English, math, or science. The ACT and SAT tests are examples of such tests. ACT Assessment: A group of tests administered by ACT and required or recommended by many colleges as part of the admission process. The tests measure educational development in English, math, reading, and science reasoning, and are given at specified test centers throughout the year. The highest score possible is 36. Admission Requirements: Many colleges and universities outline specific requirements such as high school grade point average, standardized test scores, high school courses, etc., that a student must meet to be considered for admission. Application Fee: A charge to process a student’s admission application. In some cases, this fee is waived if a student shows financial need. Associate’s Degree: The degree granted by colleges after a student satisfactorily completes a two-year, full-time program of required courses, or its part-time equivalent. Many types of colleges, including community colleges, technical colleges, and colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees, offer these degrees. Award Letter: An official document issued by a financial aid office listing all of the financial aid awarded to the student. The award letter will also include information about the cost of attendance, as well as the terms and conditions of the financial aid award. Bachelor’s Degree: The degree granted by colleges after students satisfactorily complete a four- or five-year, full-time program of required courses, or its part-time equivalent. Campus-based Awards: Financial aid programs administered by the institution. The federal and state governments provide the institution with a fixed annual allocation that is awarded to deserving students by the financial aid administrator. Students do not apply directly for these programs. The college financial aid officer reviews a student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility. The student is notified through the college award letter. Certificate: A credential given to students for completing a specified list of courses. Usually requires 60 or fewer credits. Its purpose is to certify that a student has developed expertise in a certain area. It may stand alone or may be part of a degree program.


College: An institution of higher learning offering studies that lead to an academic degree. A college can be part of a larger university system. College Catalog: A book published by the college describing requirements for admission and graduation, degrees offered, course descriptions, services, policies, procedures, faculty, costs, student rights and responsibilities, etc. College Preparatory Subjects: Courses taken in high school that are viewed by colleges and universities as strong preparation for college work. College Scholarship Service (CSS): A branch of the College Entrance Examination Board. This organization processes the supplemental PROFILE, a financial aid form required by some institutions. Community College: A college that offers programs (usually two years or less for full-time students) that prepare a student for immediate employment or for transfer to an institution offering bachelor’s degrees. Cost of Attendance: The total cost of attending a postsecondary institution for one academic year. This includes tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses. The student’s financial aid eligibility is the difference between the cost of attendance and the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) as computed by the federal government using the FAFSA. Degree: An academic title given to college graduates upon completion of a program or course of study, i.e., Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Master of Arts (M.A.), or doctorate degree (Ph.D.). Early Admission: A process that allows high school students to take the necessary standardized tests and apply early in their senior year for admission to some colleges/universities. Expected Family Contribution (EFC): The amount a student and his or her family are expected to pay toward a student’s cost of attendance. This amount is part of a formula established by Congress to determine financial aid eligibility using the FAFSA. FAFSA: See Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Federal Direct Loans: Loans that are made by the federal government directly to qualifying students and parents through participating colleges. Federal Methodology: The approved need analysis formula used to determine the family’s ability to pay for postsecondary education. Fee: Money charged by a college for services provided to a student. Fees are often charged for admission, registration, graduation, health services, lab materials, and recreational facilities. Financial Aid: Federal, state, institutional, and private programs that help students pay for college costs. Financial aid can be in the form of grants and scholarships, loans, or work-study programs. Financial Aid Package: The total amount of financial aid that a school awards a student. Federal and state aid such as loans, grants, scholarships, or work-study is combined into a “package” to help meet the student’s cost of attendance. This package fills the gap between the parents’ contribution and the total cost of college. The amount may change from year to year. Financial Need: The difference between the cost of education and what the family can reasonably be expected to contribute.


Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The form a student must use to apply for federal financial aid for college. The electronic FAFSA allows students to apply for Title IV financial aid online. This form can be accessed on the Web at www.fafsa.ed.gov. To order a paper form of the FAFSA, call the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID. Full-time Student: A student who carries a minimum number of credits or hours to be considered “full-time” by a college. The number of credits may vary from college to college but is usually 12 credits per quarter or semester. General Educational Development (GED) Test: A test that measures the knowledge and skills usually learned in high school. A person who passes the GED test earns a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Gift Aid: Financial aid that is not repaid, such as grants and scholarships. Grade Point Average (GPA): The average of a student’s course grades, generally based on a 4.0 scale. Graduate Student: A student who has earned a bachelor’s degree and is working on an advanced degree such as a master’s degree or doctorate degree. Grant: An award that is based on financial need and does not require repayment. Grants are available through the federal government, state agencies, and educational institutions. Often referred to as “gift aid.” Loan: Financial aid that must be repaid with interest after a student leaves school. Major: The primary subject of study in which a student chooses to specialize. Colleges and universities specify the number of credits needed to receive a major in a particular area, the sequence of courses, and the level of courses necessary to complete the requirements. Master’s Degree: An advanced college degree earned after a bachelor’s degree, usually taking two years for a full-time student to complete. Merit-based Awards: Monetary awards based on excellence in academics, leadership, volunteerism, athletic ability, and other areas determined by the granting organization, a college or university, or an individual. They are not based on financial need. Minor: The secondary subject of study in which a student chooses to specialize. Colleges and universities specify the number of credits needed to receive a minor in a particular area, the sequence of courses, and the level of courses necessary to complete the requirements. Need Analysis Form: A form, filled out by the student and/or family members, used to determine the amount of financial aid the student is eligible to receive. The FAFSA is a need analysis form. Need-based Awards: Awards to students who demonstrate that they and their family cannot pay on their own for all of the cost of postsecondary education. Non-need-based Awards: Awards to students who do not demonstrate financial need or who have additional college expenses that exceed need-based or merit-based need. Parental Contribution (PC): The amount a student’s parent(s) can be expected to contribute to their son’s or daughter’s education; based on an analysis of income and assets.



Part-time Student: A student enrolled in a number of course credits or hours that are less than full-time, usually less than 12 credits per semester. Postsecondary: Education or career training after a student graduates from high school. This refers to college or university (two- or four-year), career or technical schools, etc. Private/Independent College or University: A non-state-assisted college or university that relies on private funding, tuition, and fees. Private/Alternative Loans: A loan designed primarily to help students with educational expenses that exceed other available assistance (such as scholarships, grants, and Federal Stafford loans). In other words, private/alternative loans were designed to bridge the gap between college costs and traditional financial aid resources. Private/alternative loans cannot exceed the cost of attendance, minus other financial aid. PROFILE: A customized financial aid application required at certain colleges (many private colleges) that collects additional financial information to determine eligibility for institutional aid. A fee is charged to the student for processing the PROFILE. PSAT: The preliminary SAT which prepares students for the SAT and if taken during the junior year is part of the qualifying criteria for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation Programs. A student usually takes this test as a high school sophomore or early in the junior year. Sometimes abbreviated as PSAT/NMSQT. Public Colleges or Universities: Schools supported by the state (the state pays part of the school’s operating costs). Room and Board: The cost for living in residence halls or other campus housing (room) and receiving meals from the campus food service (board). SAT I: A standardized admission test published by the College Entrance Examination Board. This test concentrates on verbal and mathematical reasoning abilities and is offered at test centers throughout the academic year. The maximum score for both sections combined is 2,400. SAT II: One-hour exams that test proficiency in 15 different subject areas. They are required by some schools in addition to the SAT I. Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP): Completion of courses according to school standards. Satisfactory Academic Progress must be achieved to receive financial aid. Scholarship: Non-repayable financial award for academic and other achievements (music, athletics, etc.). Often referred to as “gift aid.” Check with the scholarship source to determine whether the award is renewable. Student Aid Report (SAR): Report of the government’s review of a student’s FAFSA. The SAR is sent to the student and released electronically to the schools that the student lists on the FAFSA. The SAR indicates if the student is eligible for financial aid. Student Contribution (SC): The contribution expected from the student toward his or her education. For dependent students, it includes some contribution from earnings, previous savings, and any other resources. For independent students, it includes a contribution from taxable and untaxed income, savings, and any other resources.


Technical School: A postsecondary vocational school that trains students in a variety of skills, especially in the manual trades, health care, and computer technology. Transcript: An official copy of a student’s academic record. It includes semesters attended, courses taken, grades received, and units or credits accumulated. Tuition: The cost of classes or credits at a school, college, or university. Undergraduate: Student working towards a bachelor’s degree. University: A postsecondary institution that includes several “colleges” or “schools,” grants graduate degrees, and may have research facilities. Verification: A requirement in federal financial aid programs whereby certain students are requested to provide additional documentation to verify the data on the financial aid application. Veteran: For federal financial aid purposes, a veteran is defined as a former member of the U.S. Armed Forces who served on active duty and was discharged other than dishonorable. Vocational School: A school at the secondary level that offers instruction and practical introductory experience in skilled or semi-skilled trades such as mechanics, carpentry, plumbing, and construction. Work-Study Program: A federally-funded and/or state-funded program that makes part-time jobs available to students with financial need.



MICHIGAN SCHOOLS BY LOCATION

This map may be used as a reference when trying to find the location of the postsecondary schools. The numbers above represent the region. The region number and the county name are provided with the school name on the following pages.


MICHIGAN PUBLIC FOUR-YEAR UNIVERSITIES

School Name, County, and Region Central Michigan University, Isabella, 4 Eastern Michigan University, Washtenaw, 6 Ferris State University, Mecosta, 3 Grand Valley State University, Ottawa, 3 Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, Kent, 3 Lake Superior State University, Chippewa, 1 Michigan State University, Ingham, 7 Michigan Technological University, Houghton, 1

Northern Michigan University, Marquette, 1 Oakland University, Oakland, 5 Saginaw Valley State University, Saginaw, 4 University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, 6 University of Michigan – Dearborn, Wayne, 5 University of Michigan – Flint, Genesee, 7 Wayne State University, Wayne, 5 Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, 8

MICHIGAN PUBLIC COMMUNITY COLLEGES

School Name, County, and Region Alpena Community College, Alpena, 2 Bay de Noc Community College, Delta, 1 Bay Mills Community College, Chippewa, 1 Delta College, Bay, 4 Glen Oaks Community College, St. Joseph, 8 Gogebic Community College, Gogebic, 1 Grand Rapids Community College, Kent, 3 Henry Ford Community College, Wayne, 5 Jackson Community College, Jackson, 6 Kalamazoo Valley Community College, Kalamazoo, 8 Kellogg Community College, Calhoun, 8 Kirtland Community College, Roscommon, 2 Lake Michigan College, Berrien, 8 Lansing Community College, Ingham, 7 Macomb Community College, Macomb, 5

Mid Michigan Community College, Clare, 4 Monroe County Community College, Monroe, 6 Montcalm Community College, Montcalm, 3 Mott Community College, Genesee, 7 Muskegon Community College, Muskegon, 3 North Central Michigan College, Emmet, 2 Northwestern Michigan College, Grand Traverse, 2 Oakland Community College, Oakland, 5 Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College, Isabella, 4 Schoolcraft College, Wayne, 5 Southwestern Michigan College, Cass, 8 St. Clair County Community College, St. Clair, 5 Washtenaw Community College, Washtenaw, 6 Wayne County Community College, Wayne, 5 West Shore Community College, Mason, 3

SPECIAL CATEGORY SCHOOLS

School Name, County, and Region Tribally Controlled Schools Bay Mills Community College, Chippewa, 1 Saginaw Chippewa Tribal College, Isabella, 4 Vocational Training Center for Adults with Physical, Mental, or Emotional Disabilities Michigan Career and Technical Institution, Barry, 8


MICHIGAN TWO- AND FOUR-YEAR INDEPENDENT COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

School Name, County, and Region

Adrian College, Lenawee, 6 Albion College, Calhoun, 8 Alma College, Gratiot, 4 Andrews University, Berrien, 8 Aquinas College, Kent, 3 Baker College for Graduate Studies, Genesee, 7 Baker College of Allen Park, Wayne, 5 Baker College of Auburn Hills, Oakland, 5 Baker College of Cadillac, Wexford, 2 Baker College of Clinton Township, Macomb, 5 Baker College of Flint, Genesee, 7 Baker College of Flint, Cass City, Tuscola, 4 Baker College of Flint, West Branch, Ogemaw, 2 Baker College of Jackson, Jackson, 6 Baker College of Muskegon, Muskegon, 3 Baker College of Muskegon, Fremont, Newaygo, 3 Baker College of Owosso, Shiawassee, 7 Baker College of Port Huron, St. Clair, 5 Calvin College, Kent, 3 Cleary University – Howell, Livingston, 7 College for Creative Studies, Wayne, 5 Concordia University, Washtenaw, 6 Cornerstone University, Kent, 3 Cranbrook Academy of Art, Oakland, 5 Davenport University, Alma, Gratiot, 4 Davenport University, Battle Creek, Calhoun, 8 Davenport University, Dearborn, Wayne, 5 Davenport University, Flint, Genesee, 7 Davenport University, Gaylord, Otsego, 2 Davenport University, Lettinga Campus, GR, Kent, 3 Davenport University, Fulton Street, GR, Kent, 3 Davenport University, Holland, Allegan, 8 Davenport University, Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo, 8

Davenport University, Lansing, Ingham, 7 Davenport University, Lapeer, Lapeer, 7 Davenport University, Midland, Midland, 4 Davenport University, Saginaw, Saginaw, 4 Davenport University, Traverse City, Grand Traverse, 2 Davenport University, Warren, Macomb, 5 Finlandia University, Houghton, 1 Grace Bible College, Kent, 3 Great Lakes Christian College, Eaton, 7 Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, 6 Hope College, Ottawa, 3 Kalamazoo College, Kalamazoo, 8 Kettering University, Genesee, 7 Kuyper College, Kent, 3 Lawrence Technological University, Oakland, 5 Madonna University, Wayne, 5 Marygrove College, Wayne, 5 Michigan Jewish Institute, Oakland, 5 Michigan Sch. of Professional Psychology, Oakland, 5 Michigan State University College of Law, Ingham, 7 Michigan Theological Seminary, Wayne, 5 Northwood University, Midland, 4 Olivet College, Eaton, 7 Robert B. Miller College, Calhoun, 8 Rochester College, Oakland, 5 Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Wayne, 5 Siena Heights University, Lenawee, 6 Spring Arbor University, Jackson, 6 Thomas M. Cooley Law School, Ingham, 7 University of Detroit Mercy, Wayne, 5 Walsh College, Oakland, 5 Western Theological Seminary, Allegan, 8 Yeshiva Gedolah of Greater Detroit, Oakland, 5


MICHIGAN PROPRIETARY SCHOOLS

School Name, County, and Region ABB Incorporated, Oakland, 5 ABC Bartending, Inc., Wayne, 5 Abcott Institute, Oakland, 5 Academy of Animal Arts, The, Wayne, 5 Academy of Court Reporting - Clawson, Oakland, 5 Academy of Dog Grooming, Inc., Macomb, 5 Academy of Entrepreneurial Studies, Grand Traverse, 2 Academy of Inkster, Wayne, 5 Academy of Massage and Bodywork, Inc., Macomb, 5 ACCESS Training Centers, Inc., Oakland, 5 Ace Tech Institute, Oakland, 5 Action Mgmt. Sch. of Career Transition, Genesee, 7 Adrian Beauty Academy, Lenawee, 6 Adrian Dominican Montessori Teacher Education Institute, Lenawee, 6 Advanced Inst. for Real Estate and Appraising, Oakland, 5 Advantage Licensing Institute, Inc, Kent, 3 Agentcampus.com/360 Training, Ingham, 7 Air Ship & Shore, Inc., Kent, 3 AIS Construction Equipment Corporation, Ingham, 7 Alexander Technique Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, 6 Alltax Income Tax School, Macomb, 5 Alpena Beauty Academy, Alpena, 2 Alpena’s Hollywood School of Beauty, Alpena, 2 Alpha Technical Institute, Oakland, 5 American Education Systems L.C., Macomb, 5 American Home Inspectors Training Institute, Wayne, 5 American Institute. for Paralegal Studies, Inc., Washtenaw, 6 American Medical Careers - Flint, Genesee, 7 American Medical Careers - Lansing, Ingham, 7 American Medical Careers - Detroit, Wayne, 5 American Medical Massage Association, Muskegon, 3 American Real Estate and Appraising Institute, Inc., Wayne, 5 American School of Dog Grooming, Macomb, 5 American School of Real Estate Express, Oakland, 5 American Society of Employers Ed. Found., Oakland, 5 Ann Arbor Institute of Massage Therapy, Washtenaw, 6 Applied Manufacturing Technologies, Inc., Oakland, 5 Appraisal Institute - Great Lakes Chapter, Macomb, 5 Aress Networking Academy, Oakland, 5 Athena Career Academy, Monroe, 6 Athena Career Academy, LLC, Wayne, 5 A-TIPS, Wayne, 5 Au Sable Institute of Environmental Studies, Antrim, 2 Axis Music Institute, Wayne, 5 Ayur Veda Therapeutic Massage Foundation, Oakland, 5 Bannow Floral School, Inc., Macomb, 5 Barber/Styling College of Lansing, Inc., Ingham, 7 Barbizon School of Michigan, Oakland, 5 Barnabas Health Care Sch. of Prof. Studies, Wayne, 5 Bay Nurse Assistant Program, Bay, 4 Bayshire Academy of Beauty Craft, Inc., Bay, 4 Bayshire Beauty Academy, Bay, 4 Beacon Learning Centers, Kent, 3 Belding EMS Education, Ionia, 7 Bellanina Institute, Washtenaw, 6 Bethesda Christian Bible Institute, Macomb, 5

Bibleway Bible Institute & Seminary, Wayne, 5 Birmingham Bible Institute, Oakland, 5 Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts and Sciences – Grand Rapids, Kent, 3 Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo, 8 Lansing, Ingham, 7 Muskegon, Muskegon, 3 Traverse City, Grand Traverse, 2 Troy, Oakland, 5 Blue Water College of Cosmetology, St. Clair, 5 Booker Institute of Cosmetology, Muskegon, 3 Booker Institute of Cosmetology, Ottawa, 3 Breithaupt Career Center, Wayne, 5 Bright Futures Business School, Genesee, 7 Brighton Institute of Cosmetology, Livingston, 7 Brookins Construction Trade School, Wayne, 5 Bruno's Dive School, Macomb, 5 Burton Electric Training, Kent, 3 Byron's School of Floral Arts, Wayne, 5 Cadillac Institute of Cosmetology, Wexford, 2 Cambridge Computer Institute, Oakland, 5 Capital Area Career Center, Ingham, 7 Capstone Realty Resources, Lapeer, 7 Career Academy of Real Estate, L.L.C., Livingston, 7 Career Companions, Inc., Wayne, 5 Career Essentials Learning Center, Wayne, 5 Career Health Studies, Macomb, 5 Career Institute of Cosmetology Inc, Marquette, 1 Career Quest Learning Centers, Inc., Ingham, 7 Careerline Tech Center, Ottawa, 3 CareerWorks, Inc., Wayne, 5 Carnegie Institute, Oakland, 5 Casinos Wild, Inc., Wayne, 5 Center for Computer Technology, LLC, Monroe, 6 Central Business School, Marquette, 1 CHES - Creative Health Ed. Solutions, LLC, Mecosta, 3 Chic University of Cosmetology, Kalamazoo, 8 Chic University of Cosmetology, Kent, 3 Christian Life School of Theology, Kent, 3 Christian Ministries Institute, Macomb, 5 ClickCE LLC, Ingham, 7 Clinical Hypnosis Institute, Oakland, 5 College of Tech & Applied Sciences, Marquette, 1 Colortec Technical Training Institute, Saginaw, 4 Compass Film Academy, Kent, 3 CompUSA - Lansing, Ingham, 7 Computer Career Builders, Wayne, 5 Computer Networking Center, Inc., Wayne, 5 Computer Products and Resources, Inc., Kent, 3 Computer Works of Monroe, Inc., Monroe, 6 ComputerTraining.com, MI LLC - Southfield, Oakland, 5 Troy, Oakland, 5 Conlin-Hallissey Travel School, Inc., Washtenaw, 6 Construction Education Trust, Oakland, 5 Constructive Community Builders, Inc., Kalamazoo, 8 Cosmetology University P.L.L.C., Midland, 4 CPS Polytechnic, Oakland, 5 Creative Hair School of Cosmetology, Genesee, 7 Crockett Technical High School, Wayne, 5 D.V.A. Ambulance, Inc., Shiawassee, 7



School Name, County, and Region Daniel’s Hairstyling Academy, Muskegon, 3 David Pressley Prof. Sch. of Cosmetology, Wayne, 5 David Pressley School of Cosmetology, Oakland, 5 Dental Careers, Inc., Oakland, 5 Dental Entry-Level Skills, Inc., Wayne, 5 Design Technique, Oakland, 5 Destiny School of Ministry, Macomb, 5 Detroit Bible Institute, Wayne, 5 Detroit Business Institute - Downriver, Wayne, 5 Detroit Business Institute - Southfield, Oakland, 5 Detroit Entrepreneurship Institute, Inc., Wayne, 5 Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology, Wayne, 5 Detroit Manufacturing Training Center, Wayne, 5 Detroit Training Institute of Technology, Wayne, 5 Diane’s School of Cosmetology LLC, Grand Traverse, 2 Dorsey School of Business, Inc. – Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, 6 Farmington Hills, Oakland, 5 Madison Heights, Oakland, 5 Roseville, Macomb, 5 Southgate, Wayne, 5 Wayne, Wayne, 5 Douglas J Aveda Institute, Kent, 3 Douglas J Aveda Institute, Washtenaw, 6 Douglas J. Aveda Institute, Ingham, 7 DRM International Learning Center, LLC, Ingham, 7 Eastern Michigan Nazarene Bible Institute, Tuscola, 4 Education and Training Connection – Midland, Midland, 4 Saginaw, Saginaw, 4 Education Services Plus, Iosco, 2 Emergency Response Technologies, Inc., Jackson, 6 EMG Learning Centers, Wayne, 5 Everest Institute, Kalamazoo, 8 Everest Institute, Kent, 3 Everest Institute, Oakland, 5 Everest Institute, Wayne, 5 Everest Institute - Grand Rapids, Oakland, 5 Everette’s Natural Hair & Beauty School, Wayne, 5 Excel Academies of Cosmetology – Lansing, Ingham, 7 Kentwood, Kent, 3 Troy, Oakland, 5 Fenton Academy of Cosmetology, Genesee, 7 Fernandis Beauty College, Macomb, 5 Flint Bible Institute, Genesee, 7 Flint Institute of Barbering, Genesee, 7 Flint School of Therapeutic Massage - Flint, Genesee, 7 Flint School of Therapeutic Massage – Sag., Saginaw, 4 Focus: HOPE Information Technologies Ctr., Wayne, 5 Focus: Hope Machinist Training Institute, Wayne, 5 Frederick's School of Therapeutic Massage, Macomb, 5 French Academy of Cosmetology Inc, Ottawa, 3 Gallery College of Beauty: The, Macomb, 5 GB Sales & Service, Inc., Wayne, 5 Genanscot Services, Wayne, 5 Genesee Reg. Chamber of Comm. E-Center, Genesee, 7 Glass Academy L.L.C., Wayne, 5 Global Information Technology, Oakland, 5 GM Dental Assistant School, LLC, Muskegon, 3

Gogebic Community College - Cosmetology, Gogebic, 1 Gogebic Med. Care Fac. - Nurse Aide Train., Gogebic, 1 Goodwill Industries of Greater GR, Inc., Kent, 3 Goodwill Industries of Southwestern MI, Kalamazoo, 8 Goodwill Occupational Academy, Wayne, 5 Gradepoint, Inc., Wayne, 5 Grand Rapids Assisting School, Kent, 3 Great Lakes Academy of Hair Design, St. Clair, 5 Great Lakes Boat Building School, Mackinac, 1 Great Lakes EMS Academy, Ottawa, 3 Great Lakes Medical Education Center, Inc., Oakland, 5 Greater Horizon Training Institute, Wayne, 5 Grondin’s College of Cosmetology, Lapeer, 7 Guardian Massage & Reflexology Program, Macomb, 5 Guidance Ctr. Workforce Training Services, Wayne, 5 Guidelines School of Cosmetology, Dickinson, 1 H & R Block Eastern Enterprises, Inc., Oakland, 5 Hair Force Academy, Genesee, 7 Hazy Institute of Learning, Wayne, 5 Healing Hands Holistic Health Center School of Massage, Macomb, 5 Health Care Solutions and Career Group, Wayne, 5 Health Enrichment Center, Inc., Lapeer, 7 Healthy Focus, LLC, Muskegon, 3 Heritage Center for Religious Studies, Wayne, 5 Hill Ctenter for Academics & Technology Cosmetology Program, Ingham, 7 Hillsdale Beauty College, Inc., Hillsdale, 6 Holloway's Real Estate Institute, Inc., Ingham, 7 Home Building Workshops, Inc., Wayne, 5 Hope Network West Michigan, Mecosta, 3 Hospitality Mgmt. Dev. & Training Center, Oakland, 5 Houghton Lake Inst. of Cosmetology, Roscommon, 2 Howard’s Caro Beauty Academy, Tuscola, 4 Huron Area Tech Center, Huron, 4 Huron Valley Ambulance Center for EMS Education, Washtenaw, 6 Huron Valley Beauty Academy, Washtenaw, 6 ICR's Learning Institute, Macomb, 5 IDEA Consultants, Inc., Oakland, 5 In Session Arts of Cosmetology Beauty School, Midland, 4 In Session Arts of Cosmetology Beauty School, Saginaw, 4 INCAT, Oakland, 5 Infinity Institute International, Inc., Oakland, 5 Institute for Health Professions, Wayne, 5 Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Washtenaw, 6 Institute of Natural Health Sciences, Oakland, 5 Institute of Natural Therapies, Houghton, 1 Institute of Transformational Hypnotherapy, Ingham, 7 Integrated Information Services, Inc., Oakland, 5 International Bartending School, Wayne, 5 International Cosmetology Academy LLC, Kent, 3 Irene's Myomassology Institute, Inc., Oakland, 5 J. L. Murphy School of Cosmetology, Allegan, 8 Jackson Area Career Center, Jackson, 6 Jackson Beauty Academy, Jackson, 6 John Casablancas Modeling & Career Ctr, Wayne, 5 John Casablancas Modeling & Career Ctr., Macomb, 5



School Name, County, and Region John Robert Powers School, Oakland, 5 Kalamazoo Ctr. for the Healing Arts, LLC, Kalamazoo, 8 Kaplan Career Institute, Wayne, 5 Kawasaki Robotics N. American Train. Ctr., Oakland, 5 Kent Career/Technical Center, Kent, 3 Kettering High School of Cosmetology, Wayne, 5 Kirtland Comm. College - Cosmetology, Roscommon, 2 Krainz Woods Academy of Medical Laboratory Technology, Wayne, 5 L’esprit Academy, Wayne, 5 Lakeside Academy of Therapeutic Massage, Ottawa, 3 Lakewood School of Therapeutic Massage, St. Clair, 5 Latoya's Health Education Center, Saginaw, 4 Lawton School - Southfield, Oakland, 5 Lawton School - Warren, Macomb, 5 Leaders for Christ Training Center, Ottawa, 3 Learn Transcription.com, Inc., Allegan, 8 Learning Designs, Inc., Oakland, 5 Life EMS Ambulance Education Centre, Kent, 3 Life Support Training Institute, Oakland, 5 Lifestyles Learning Real Estate Training Academy, Livingston, 7 Local 547 Stationary Engineers Ed. Fund, Wayne, 5 M J Murphy Beauty College, Isabella, 4 M J Murphy Beauty College of Clare, Clare, 4 Mane Street Academy of Hair Design, Shiawassee, 7 Maple Manor Nursing Center, Inc., Ontonagon, 1 Market-Smart, LLC, Oakland, 5 Marketti Academy of Cosmetology LLC, Oakland, 5 Marquette Sch. of Therapeutic Massage – Escanaba, Delta, 1 Marquette, Marquette, 1 MCAR School of Real Estate - Oakland Cty., Oakland, 5 Mecosta Osceola School District, Mecosta, 3 Medic 1 Community Emergency Service, Berrien, 8 Medical Massage Inst. of Southeast MI, Inc., Monroe, 6 MedRight, Oakland, 5 Medstar Medical Education Center, Macomb, 5 MI License.net, LLC, Kent, 3 Michigan Academy of Emergency Services, Wayne, 5 Michigan Association of Realtors, Ingham, 7 Michigan Barber School, Inc., Wayne, 5 Michigan Bodywork & Fitness Academy, Kent, 3 Michigan Business & Technical Institute, Wayne, 5 Michigan College of Beauty, Monroe, 6 Michigan College of Beauty, Oakland, 5 Michigan College of Beauty, Oakland, 5 Michigan College of Bty/Pivot Point Ctr, Oakland, 5 Michigan EMS Educational Services, Ingham, 7 Michigan HVAC Vocational Train. Ctr., Inc., Oakland, 5 Michigan Inst. of Aviation and Technology, Wayne, 5 Michigan Institute of Dental Assisting, Inc., Wayne, 5 Michigan Inst. of Healing Arts & Sciences, Calhoun, 8 Michigan Institute of Massage Therapy, Delta, 1 Michigan Institute of Real Estate, Inc., Wayne, 5 Michigan Institute of Technology, Lapeer, 7 Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, Wayne, 5 Michigan Montessori Teacher Ed. Ctr., Oakland, 5 Michigan Real Estate Academy, Kalamazoo, 8 Michigan Realty Training Center, Macomb, 5 Michigan School of Canine Cosmetology, Ingham, 7

Michigan School of Holistic Health, Macomb, 5 Michigan School of Myomassology, Oakland, 5 Michigan School of Traditional Midwifery & Herbology, Alcona, 2 Middleton Real Estate Training, Inc., Oakland, 5 Mid-Michigan School of Real Estate Training, Lapeer, 7 Midwest Careers Institute, Wayne, 5 Millwright Institute of Technology, Macomb, 5 Miss Katie’s Plymouth College of Beauty, Wayne, 5 Mix Masters School of Bartending, Wayne, 5 Mobile Medical Response Education, Saginaw, 4 Montcalm Area Career Center, Montcalm, 3 Mount Hope Bible Training Institute, Ingham, 7 Mr. Bela’s School of Cosmetology, Macomb, 5 N Touch Therapeutic Massage School, Genesee, 4 National Personal Training Institute, Oakland, 5 National School of Real Estate, Wayne, 5 National Short Course School of MI, LLC, Muskegon, 3 Naturopathic Inst. of Therapies and Ed., Isabella, 4 NCI Associates, Ltd., Oakland, 5 New Beginnings Marketing Training School, Oakland, 5 New Horizons Computer Learning Centers of MI, - Flint, Genesee, 4 East Lansing, Ingham, 7 Portage, Kalamazoo, 8 Grand Rapids, Kent, 3 Troy, Oakland, 5 Livonia, Wayne, 5 New Tribes Bible Institute, Jackson, 6 Newaygo County Career-Tech Center, Newaygo, 3 NexCare Health Care Training Institute, Wayne, 5 North Country Heavy Equipment School, LLC, Delta, 1 Northeast Michigan School of Wildlife Art, Alpena, 2 Northside Economic Potential Group, Kalamazoo, 8 Northwestern Technological Institute, Oakland, 5 Nuvo College of Cosmetology, Muskegon, 3 Oakland Sch. Technical Campus Northeast, Oakland, 5 Oceana County EMS, Oceana, 3 Operation ABLE of MI (Detroit Training Ctr.), Wayne, 5 Origin Institurte of Massage Therapy and Healing Arts, Macomb, 5 P and A Scholars Beauty School, Wayne, 5 Paul Mitchell The School – Michigan, Macomb, 5 Payne-Pulliam Career Center, Wayne, 5 PC Pro Schools of Grand Rapids, Inc., Kent, 3 Phlebotomy Education, Inc., Wayne, 3 Practical Computer Solutions, LLC, Jackson, 6 Precise Health Care Training Institute, Wayne, 5 Precise School of Medical Billing, Macomb, 5 Premier Beauty Institute Inc, Wayne, 5 Premier Medical Academy, Jackson, 6 Professional Bartending Institute, LLC, Oakland, 5 Professional Dev. & Train. Ctr. of SW MI, Kalamazoo, 8 Professional Florist Institute, Oakland, 5 Professional Learning Network, Inc., Jackson, 6 Protégé Academy, Ingham, 7 PTD Technology, Ingham, 7 Quantum Training Centers, Inc., Oakland, 5 Quickstart Real Estate Licensing School, Berrien, 8 R & R Training, Inc., Macomb, 5 Rand Technologies of Michigan, Oakland, 5



School Name, County, and Region Ray of Hope, LLC Training Center, Midland, 4 Real Estate Careers' Academy, Berrien, 8 Real Estate Institute, Cass, 8 Real Estate One Academy, Oakland, 5 Real Estate Professional Ed. Group, LLC, Wayne, 5 Recording Institute of Detroit, Macomb, 5 Redford School of Cosmetology, Wayne, 5 Regal Beauty School, Wayne, 5 Renaissance Academy of Beauty, Delta, 1 RETA ( Real Estate Training Academy), Genesee, 4 Richmond Lenox E.M.S. Ambulance Auth., Macomb, 5 Robertson International College of Beauty, Wayne, 5 Ross Medical Education Center – Ann Arbor, Washtenaw, 6 Brighton, Livingston, 7 Flint, Genesee, 4 Grand Rapids, Kent, 3 Lansing, Ingham, 7 New Baltimore, Macomb, 5 Port Huron, St. Clair, 5 Redford, Wayne, 5 Roosevelt Park, Muskegon, 3 Saginaw, Saginaw, 4 Warren, Macomb, 5 Sally Esser Beauty School Inc., Wayne, 5 Sankofa Career Services, LLC, Macomb, 5 Scholars Cosmetology University, Washtenaw, 6 School of Creative Hair Design, The, Branch, 8 School of Designing Arts, Calhoun, 8 SER Business and Technical Institute, Wayne, 5 Sharp Real Estate Training, Inc. - Saginaw, Saginaw, 4 Sharp Real Estate Training, Inc. - Westland, Wayne, 5 Sharp’s Academy of Hairstyling, Inc., - Flushing, Genesee, 7 Grand Blanc, Genesee, 7 Smart Financial & Entrepreneurship Inst., Oakland, 5 Somerset School of Massage Therapy & Alternative Health, Genesee, 4 Specs Howard Sch. of Broadcast Arts, Inc., Oakland, 5 Spring Renewal, Allegan, 8 St Clair County Academy of Style, St. Clair, 5 Stanley Harris School of Cosmetology, Ottawa, 3 Stasio Institute of Therapeutic Massage - Warren, Macomb, 5 Superior Medical Education, Inc., Oakland, 5 Tawas Hollywood School of Beauty, Iosco, 2 Taylortown School of Beauty Inc., Wayne, 5 TBA School of Cosmetology, Grand Traverse, 2 The American Hotel & Lodging Ed. Inst., Ingham, 7 The Awareness Institute of Hypnotherapy, Monroe, 6 The Barn Theatre School for Advanced Theatre Training, Kalamazoo, 8 The Baths of Caracalla, LLC, Kent, 3 The Cardiovascular Diagnostic Institute of Michigan, Inc., Oakland, 5 The Ding King Training Institute, Inc., Wayne, 5 The Holistic Wellness Academy, Berrien, 8 The Institute - The Source for Continuing Education, L.L.C., Ingham, 7

The Institute of Cognitive Behavioral Sciences, Wayne, 5 The International Career Academy, Oakland, 5 The Learning Center of Northern Michigan, Emmet, 2 The MIKA School of Technology, Oakland, 5 The Motion Picture Institute of Michigan, Oakland, 5 The Paragon School of Pet Grooming, Inc., Ottawa, 3 The Real Estate School, Oakland, 5 The Real Estate School of Michigan, Inc., Oakland, 5 The William Davidson Institute, Washtenaw, 6 Theological School of the Protestant Reformed Churches, Kent, 3 Toledo School of Dog Grooming, Monroe, 6 TR Consulting Heavy Equipment Train. Co., Ingham, 7 Transitions School of Cosmetology, Genesee, 7 Traverse City Beauty College, Grand Traverse, 2 Tri-Counties Multi Trade Centers, Wayne, 5 Trinity School of Therapeutic Massage, Inc., Macomb, 5 Twin City Beauty College – St. Joseph, Berrien, 8 U S Scuba Instructor Development Center, Oakland, 5 U.P. Academy of Hair Design, Delta, 1 U.S. Brokers Institute, Kent, 3 U.S. Captains Training, Grand Traverse, 2 United Bible Institute of U.T.S., Genesee, 7 Unity Urban Ministerial School, Wayne, 5 Up North School of Cosmetology, Chippewa, 1 Up North School of Cosmetology II Inc., Emmet, 2 Urban Training Center, Inc., Wayne, 5 Valentine Robotics, Macomb, 5 Valley Beauty Academy, Saginaw, 4 Valley Training Center, LLC, Bay, 4 Van Buren Technology Center, Van Buren, 8 Viking School of Real Estate, Wayne, 5 Virginia Farrell Beauty School – St. Clair Shores, Macomb, 5 Southfield, Oakland, 5 Ferndale, Oakland, 5 Livonia, Wayne, 5 Westland, Wayne, 5 Walker Medical Instructional Services, Kent, 3 Warren Woods Tower HS Cosmetology, Macomb, 5 Warren Woods Vocational/Adult Education, Macomb, 5 Waterford EMS Academy, Oakland, 5 West Michigan Center for Arts & Technology, Kent, 3 West Michigan College of Barbering, Kalamazoo, 8 West Michigan College of Beauty, Kalamazoo, 8 West Michigan Dental Assisting School, Ottawa, 3 Western Michigan Bible Institute, Inc., Muskegon, 3 Wholistic Training Institute, Wayne, 5 Wolverine Farrier School, Clare, 4 Wright Beauty Academy, Inc., Calhoun, 8 Wright Beauty Academy, Inc., Kalamazoo, 8

Participation in financial aid programs differs at each school.

Check with the school to see what types of financial aid are available.

See www.michiganps.net for more information on Michigan proprietary schools.


A Guide for Adults in Pursuit of Higher Education

Three Important Facts You Need to Know

About Going to College

Are you an adult considering going to college, but think you are too old or have too many responsibilities? Maybe you think you do not have the time or extra money for college. The following three facts will help dispel these doubts:

Fact 1: There is No Age Limit on Learning Adults attending college are one of the fastest growing student populations today. Recent statistics show that 20-25 percent of all college students nationwide are adult learners. This is due in large part to the increasing number of displaced workers. For others, obtaining a college degree is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream and some adults just want to learn new skills to enhance their career. Whatever the reason, do not let your age keep you from going to college – you owe it to your future. Fact 2: College Can Fit Into Your Busy Life Schedule

It is a fact that in today’s hectic, demanding world, time has become a precious commodity. For many adults, attending college on campus is too time consuming and inconvenient. Colleges and universities realize this and offer many flexible options for completing coursework:

• Evening and weekend programs for people who work weekdays. • Accelerated programs can reduce the time it takes to get a degree. • Independent study allows you to complete coursework on your own based on your instructor’s

criteria. • On-line degree programs allow you to complete and submit coursework and participate in

discussion groups via the Internet. • Distance learning offers “real-time” classes via satellite feed or closed-circuit television. • Academic transfer programs allow you to complete up to three years of a bachelor’s degree at

a community college before transferring to a four-year college or university to complete the remaining year of study.

• College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) allows you to “test out” of certain undergraduate college subjects and earn college credit without taking the course.

Check with the admissions office of the college or university you are interested in attending to see which of these programs they offer. Fact 3: There Are a Number of Financial Aid Programs Available to Adults The first step in pursuing financial aid is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is your application for federal, state, and campus-based financial aid. You can complete the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. You must obtain a Personal Identification Number (PIN) before you complete the FAFSA. This PIN is your signature for the electronic FAFSA. You can receive your PIN from www.pin.ed.gov. You must complete the FAFSA every year you need financial aid, after January 1 but before March 1, to receive first consideration for state of Michigan aid.


Types of Financial Aid You Might Be Eligible For:

State of Michigan

• No Worker Left Behind (NWLB) free tuition program: www.michigan.gov/nwlb

• Michigan Competitive Scholarship* • Michigan Nursing Scholarship* • Adult Part-Time Grant* • Michigan Tuition Grant* • Michigan Rehabilitation Services: www.michigan.gov/mrs • Michigan Work-Study*

*Go to www.michigan.gov/studentaid for eligibility criteria.

Federal Programs

• Federal Pell Grant • Carl D. Perkins Career and Technology Education Act of 2006 • Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) • Work-Study • Perkins Loan • Subsidized Stafford Loan • Unsubsidized Stafford Loan • Federal Grad PLUS Loan • Teacher Education Assistance for College and

Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program Veterans Benefits

• Montgomery G.I. Bill: www.gibill.va.gov • Tuition reimbursement: www.gibill.va.gov

Education Tax Benefits

• Hope Tax Credit: www.irs.gov • Lifetime Learning Tax Credit: www.irs.gov

Institutional Aid Many colleges and universities have additional financial aid available to eligible students. Contact the financial aid office at the school you are thinking of attending for specific information. If you have questions or need additional information regarding any of the aforementioned programs, including eligibility criteria, please contact the Student Financial Services Bureau at 1-800-642-5626, extension 37054, by email at [email protected], or visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/studentaid.


NOTES

CONTACT INFORMATION

Office of Scholarships and Grants P.O. Box 30462 Lansing, MI 48909-7962 Web site: www.michigan.gov/studentaid Email: [email protected] (1-888-447-2687) For questions about: • Michigan Promise Scholarship • Michigan Competitive Scholarship (MCS) • Michigan Tuition Grant (MTG) • Michigan Educational Opportunity Grant (MEOG) • Adult Part-Time Grant (APTG) • Michigan Work-Study (MWS) • Michigan Nursing Scholarship (MNS) • Children of Veterans Tuition Grant (CVTG) • Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) • Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship • Federal Leveraging Educational Assistance

Partnership (LEAP)

Michigan Guaranty Agency P.O. Box 30047 Lansing, MI 48909-7547 Web site: www.mgaloan.com Email: [email protected] (1-800-642-5626)

For questions about:

• Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) • Defaulted Student Loans • Student Loan Issues • Publications • Student Loan Brochures • Repayment/Interest Charts • Scholarship and Grant Information • Personalized Customer Service • Default Aversion • Outreach and Financial Aid Presentations • Claims and Collections

Michigan Education Trust P.O. Box 30198 Lansing, MI 48909-9901 Web site: www.setwithmet.com Email: [email protected] (1-800-638-4543) For questions about: • Michigan Education Trust (MET)

Michigan Education Savings Program P.O. Box 30361 Lansing, MI 48909-7861 Web site: www.misaves.com Email: [email protected] 1-877-861-MESP (1-877-861-6377) For questions about: • Michigan Education Savings Program (MESP)

Michigan Higher Education Student Loan Authority P.O. Box 30051 Lansing, MI 48909-7551 Web site: www.michigan.gov/studentaid Email: [email protected] (1-888-643-7521) For questions about:

• Federal Family Education Loan Programs (FFELP)

Student Financial Services Bureau P.O. Box 30047 Lansing, MI 48909-7547 Web site: www.michigan.gov/studentaid Email: [email protected], extension 37054 For all other questions regarding financial aid in Michigan.

For financial aid information from the federal government, call 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243) or visit the Web site at www.studentaid.ed.gov.







Student Financial Services Bureau Michigan Department of Treasury

Our mission is to excel in assisting citizens to pursue postsecondary education

by providing equality of access to student financial resources and information.

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