Michigan gives grants to districts that require students to fill out FAFSA

March 5, 2026

Michigan is incentivizing school districts to require high school seniors to complete the FAFSA form as a graduation requirement by awarding grant money through its Universal FAFSA Challenge program. The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential distributed $10 million to 67 school districts in 2025 to support these efforts, which include helping students and families navigate college applications and financial aid processes. This initiative aligns with Governor Gretchen Whitmer's goal of having 60% of working-age adults hold a skills certificate or college degree by 2030, up from the current 51.

Who is affected

High school seniors in 67 Michigan school districts receiving grants
Students in districts like Dearborn Public Schools, Ypsilanti Community Schools, and West Bloomfield School District
Families of high school students navigating college applications
School staff members serving as FAFSA champions
Working-age adults in Michigan (targeted by the state's 60% degree attainment goal)
Current and prospective college students seeking financial aid

What action is being taken

The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential is distributing $10 million in grants to 67 school districts
School districts are implementing FAFSA graduation requirements with opt-out options
Districts are hosting informational meetings and making staff available to help complete the FAFSA
Schools are organizing college visits for interested students
Districts are providing workshops focusing on test preparation, FAFSA guidance, and college/career options
Schools are offering incentives like gift cards for students who complete the FAFSA and apply to at least one college

Why it matters

This initiative matters because Michigan seeks to increase college enrollment and degree completion rates, with only 53.4% of high school graduates currently enrolling in college within six months and just 41.8% of seniors completing the FAFSA. The FAFSA is crucial for accessing financial aid including Michigan's Achievement Scholarship program, which can cover up to five years at public universities or make community college tuition-free. By encouraging early career planning and financial aid applications, the state aims to achieve its goal of 60% of working-age adults holding credentials by 2030, up from 51.6% currently. The local district-level approach serves as a proof of concept that could influence future statewide policy without mandating participation.

What's next

In April, state agencies will host an event at Ford Field in Detroit for high school juniors and seniors to learn about career and college opportunities, where students will be able to fill out the FAFSA on site.

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com