LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced expanded eligibility for Michigan Reconnect, a program offering tuition-free associate degrees or skills certificates, now open to Michiganders aged 21-24. This expansion provides thousands of previously ineligible adults with a new pathway to higher education at local community or Tribal colleges, building on the success of nearly 20,000 graduates since the program's 2021 launch.
The program's broadened reach is supported by a $25 million ongoing investment within the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2027 education budget, which lowers the eligibility age from 25 to 21. Michigan Reconnect helps adults without a college degree enroll in or return to school, covering tuition for those attending local community colleges and offering substantial assistance for out-of-district institutions.
The economic impact of Michigan Reconnect is significant. Scott Powell, chief data officer for the State of Michigan and director of the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics (MCDA), said, “One year after graduation, our research shows that the median wage among Reconnectors increased $13,400 compared with pre-Reconnect wages.” He added that by year two, median wages increased to $16,300 higher, representing an overall 48 percent increase.
Governor Whitmer emphasized the program's commitment to accessibility, stating, “Every Michigander deserves a fair shot at building a future, and we’re making sure that money doesn’t stand in the way.” Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, executive director of the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), encouraged newly eligible individuals to seize this opportunity for a high-wage career and greater economic stability.
Reconnect graduate Kendrik Myers shared his experience, noting the program addressed financial barriers and provided a crucial support system, leading to a successful career as a manager. Michigan Reconnect Navigators are also available to offer free, one-on-one support for students throughout their educational journey. This expansion is a key step towards Michigan's "Sixty by 30" goal, aiming to increase the number of residents with postsecondary credentials and foster a more skilled workforce.