Governor Whitmer Launches A Tuition-Free Program

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced in a press conference today that she launched a program which offers tuition free college. There are an estimated 625,000 Michiganders who have provided essential, frontline services during the Covid-19 Stay home, stay safe orders, that are eligible for this offering. Futures for Front liners, inspired by the GI bill in WWII, provides Michigan adults who do not have college degrees or high school diplomas, who provided essential services during the pandemic a pathway to a tuition-free education.

WLNS reports “This initiative is Michigan’s way of expressing gratitude to essential workers for protecting public health and keeping our state running,” Whitmer said. “Whether it was stocking shelves, delivering supplies, picking up trash, manufacturing PPE or providing medical care, you were there for us. Now this is your chance to pursue the degree or training you’ve been dreaming about to help you and your own family succeed.” This 24-million-dollar investment is funded by the Governors Education Emergency Relief Fund, part of the CARES act.

To help businesses grow, a more educated workforce is essential. That would also make Michigan a more competitive state, attract jobs of the future, and supply families a way to navigate our changing economy, and make more money.

Here is what is required to be eligible for this program:

Be a Michigan resident

Have worked in an essential industry at least part-time for 11 of the 13 weeks between April 1 – June 30, 2020

Have been required by their job to work outside the home at least some of the time between April 1 – June 30, 2020

Not have previously earned an associate or bachelor’s degree

Not be in default on a Federal student loan

Complete a Futures for Front liners scholarship application by 11:59 p.m., Dec. 31, 2020

Front Line workers interested in exploring the opportunities of this program should visit http://michigan.gov/Frontliners