FAFSA opens: Michigan students can now apply for 2025-26 grants and scholarships
Michelle Richard, deputy director of Higher Education at MiLEAP, says completing the FAFSA is a simple process with lasting benefits.
The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) announces that students and families can now submit the 2025-26 FAFSA.
The FAFSA is a crucial step for students seeking financial aid, including grants and scholarships, such as the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, Community College Guarantee, and the federal Pell Grant.
“At MiLEAP, we believe every Michigander deserves the opportunity to thrive,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “Whether students choose to attend a community college, public or private university, Tribal college, or career training center, each option holds the promise of a brighter future.”
The FAFSA has been streamlined, with the number of questions reduced from 108 to 36, making it easier to complete in less than 15 minutes. Students and families can complete the FAFSA online at FAFSA.gov or submit a paper form.
Michelle Richard, deputy director of Higher Education at MiLEAP, asserts that completing the FAFSA is a simple process with lasting benefits.
The Michigan Achievement Scholarship, offered by MiLEAP, provides up to $27,500 over five years to Michigan students attending Michigan public or private universities or community colleges. To qualify, students must be Michigan high school graduates, earn a high school equivalency certificate, or demonstrate financial need by completing the FAFSA. In past years, seven out of ten high school graduates were eligible, and over 28,800 students benefited in the program’s first year.
The Community College Guarantee covers tuition for students pursuing associate degrees or skill certificates at Michigan community colleges and Tribal colleges, regardless of income. The program covers most tuition for out-of-district students and offers $1,000 more for those qualifying for the federal Pell Grant.
“Completing the simplified FAFSA is the key to unlocking federal, state, and school financial aid that make college a possibility for millions of students,” said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, executive director of Michigan College Access Network. “MCAN has been actively promoting FAFSA resources to a network of more than 1,000 K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and community partners to ensure 2025-2026 FAFSA-readiness for all partners and students.”
The Federal Student Aid Information Center is available to assist students and families with the FAFSA application process through March 2, 2025. Additional information on state scholarships and FAFSA completion resources can be found at Michigan.gov/MiStudentAid.
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