Lansing, Michigan – On Monday, the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) revealed a substantial $10 million grant initiative in a major move to improve college accessibility for seniors from Michigan’s high schools. By raising FAFSA completion rates, the Universal Free Application for Federal Student assistance (FAFSA) Challenge Grant is meant to open more financial assistance prospects and encourage greater student enrollment among other.
The Director of MiLEAP, Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, emphasized the need of the FAFSA in releasing vital money for students.
“Completing the FAFSA is a critical step for students seeking financial aid for college,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea in a news release. “Our department is committed to fostering partnerships that enable Michigan students to unlock these essential dollars, ensuring they have access to the financial resources needed to further their education and pave their path to prosperity.”
Though with an opt-out clause for qualifying students, local education systems and public school academies that include FAFSA completion into their high school graduation criteria will be eligible for the grant. This covers persons who can provide a waiver seeking exemption. Participating districts are required to use grant money to carry out programs shown to increase FAFSA completion rates, therefore guaranteeing students get required support all through the application process.
Michelle Richard, MiLEAP’s Deputy Director of Higher Education, highlighted the broader implications of the initiative.
“This grant initiative is a fantastic opportunity to help Michigan students turn their dreams of post-secondary education into reality,” said Richard. “When students fill out the FAFSA they’re not just filling out a form – they’re opening the door to vital federal and state funding opportunities, like the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and the Community College Guarantee, which can significantly lower their education costs.
She also pointed out that 90% of students who complete the FAFSA go on to enroll in college, thus this program not only helps to reduce educational costs but also provides students the momentum they need to earn a college degree or skill certificate.
The grant money will be distributed equally depending on the 12th grade enrollment in every qualified district. Set to open by November 1, 2024, the Universal FAFSA Challenge Grant’s application window closes on December 1, 2024. Grant awards to qualified districts should arrive by January 31, 2025.
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MiLEAP advises those looking for further information on the Universal FAFSA Challenge Grant or details on the application procedure to visit their Office of Higher Education homepage. This program represents a major governmental effort to guarantee that more students may negotiate college’s financial constraints and reach their academic and career aspirations.