Huge programs like federal Pell Grants get much of the publicity when it comes to financial aid. But there are some smaller, lesser known state and federal programs that also may help you pay for school.
Michigan Competitive Scholarship
The Michigan Competitive Scholarship pays a maximum of $1,500 per academic year. To qualify, you must file a FAFSA, have financial need, have a high school diploma or GED, and enroll at least half time, among other requirements. The scholarship is renewable if you maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 and meet WCC’s Satisfactory Academic Progress policy. You will be notified by the State of Michigan if you have met the eligibility requirements.
Tuition Incentive Program
The Tuition Incentive Program encourages students from low-income families to complete high school by providing tuition assistance for college. All recipients must be enrolled in college at least half time. To qualify, a student must be considered financially eligible by the Family Independence Agency prior to high school graduation and meet other requirements. TIP applications are available at local high schools.
Michigan Indian Tuition Waiver Program
Native American students who are at least one-quarter Indian descent can receive free tuition under this program. To qualify, a student also must be an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe and have been a legal resident of Michigan for at least 12 months. For more information, visit the Michigan Department of Civil Rights website.
Veterans Benefits
Veterans and their eligible dependents who attend WCC may receive benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information, visit the Wadhams Veterans Center.
AmeriCorps
AmeriCorps is a federal program that provides tuition assistance in exchange for community service with a local or national nonprofit group. AmeriCorps members may tutor and mentor disadvantaged children, fight illiteracy, improve health services, build affordable housing, teach computer skills, clean parks and streams, and provide other services. For more information, visit the AmeriCorps website.
The Charles E. Schell Foundation Educational Assistance Loan
This interest-free loan was established to aid students in securing an education that
may otherwise be unattainable. Learn more and fill out the application.