7/18/23 - MCCA Applauds Community College Budget Investments

Michigan Reconnect provides free in-district tuition at a Michigan community college to earn an associate degree or Pell-eligible skill certificate.

(michigan.gov - MCCA) -  The Michigan Reconnect program encourages residents to think about pursuing a career training program.  Many could be eligible to receive up to $1,500 towards tuition costs for eligible career training programs here in Michigan with the Short-Term Training Program.

Following approval of the Fiscal Year 2024 budget by the Michigan Legislature, Michigan Community College Association President Brandy Johnson issued the following statement:

“Michigan’s community colleges are proud to be providing the skills and education needed to close the skills gap. The investments in this year’s budget will help us accelerate our efforts. We are grateful for the 5% ongoing increase for community college operations grants and funding to temporarily lower the age of Reconnect to make sure individuals 21 and over whose education was interrupted by the pandemic can use the program. Funding for wraparound services for community college students will help our colleges better support students both in and out of the classroom. We also appreciate initial investments allowing our colleges to address critical infrastructure and safety updates. These investments are a great start to ensure our colleges can position themselves to meet student, employer and community needs.”

“Through these investments, Michigan’s community colleges will continue to provide high-quality education and training to ensure Michiganders have successful futures.” 

To be eligible, you must:

• Have lived in Michigan for a year or more
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have not yet completed a college degree (associate or bachelor's)

If you do not have a high school diploma or equivalent, visit Michigan.gov/LearnMoreEarnMore to get started. 

Michigan Reconnect provides free in-district tuition, mandatory fees, and contact hours for accepted and eligible applicants to pursue a Pell-eligible associate degree or skill certificate at any of Michigan's public community colleges. Have questions before you apply? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about the program and what it offers.