Free or Affordable Higher Education for All

Colleges and universities play an integral role in shaping how our young people make their way in the world — whether to pursue a future in health care, technology, the trades, and more. That’s why, as part of the 2025 state budget, Senate Democrats included $330 million for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship (MAS). The bipartisan scholarship program helps lower the cost of community, private, or public college by thousands of dollars a year — up to $27,500 over five years — for most graduating seniors statewide.

As part of this year’s budget, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship includes expanding access to free community college for all students in every part of the state with the Community College Guarantee. This investment would help cover tuition costs for Michigan high school graduates while they work toward an associate degree or skilled certificate at a Michigan community college. In addition to the funding increase, this program offers different residence-based options for eligible Michigan students.

The Community College Guarantee opens more pathways for high school graduates across the state to attend community college, preparing a brighter future ahead for the state of Michigan and its workforce.