Learn more about free tuition for students 21 and older through Michigan Reconnect

MI-Reconnect graphic with young woman holding a tablet, text says "Say hello to free tuition. Other costs will apply."

HFC is proud to support Michigan Reconnect, a new scholarship program that allows people to attend the College tuition-free.

Michigan Reconnect pays the tuition and other mandatory fees for applicants to attend HFC, provided they are in-district. Books and course fees are not included. Out-of-district students will need to pay the difference between in-district and out-of-district tuition and fees. Financial aid may be available to assist.

"We are excited that the State of Michigan is increasing access to higher education by lowering the starting eligible age to 21. This fantastic program significantly alleviates the financial pressures around continuing education by allowing eligible students to a 2-year institution for free or at a significantly reduced cost. At Henry Ford College we're proud to feature a number of degree and certificate programs that are focused on preparing graduates to immediately enter their industry of choice, or serve as a launching pad to transfer to a 4-year college or university. At HFC we virtually have something for everyone, ranging from Business and Entrepreneurship, the Skilled Trades, Health and Human Services, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), and the Liberal Arts. We can't wait for future Hawks to take flight here!" said HFC Director of Admissions and Recruiting Niko Kanagawa.

Requirements to apply

Applicants can use the Michigan Reconnect scholarship to either pursue an associate degree or a certificate program. To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be a minimum of 21 years old when applying
  • Have lived in Michigan for one year or more
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
  • Have not yet completed any form of college degree (associate degree or bachelor’s degree)
  • Be a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen (must be eligible to complete the FAFSA)
  • If applicants do not have a high school diploma or equivalent, visit Michigan.gov/LearnMoreEarnMore to get started.

Michigan Reconnect is part of Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Sixty by 30 initiative, which aims to increase the number of Michigan citizens with a post-secondary credential to 60% by 2030 to meet the demand for skilled workers.

To apply for Michigan Reconnect

To apply for the Michigan Reconnect scholarship, you most complete the following four steps:

  1. Apply online to Michigan Reconnect: The application takes less than five minutes to complete and can even be done on a mobile phone. If you are having difficulties on your mobile device, it is recommended to use a different browser or computer.
  2. Apply to HFC: If you’re already a student at HFC, then this step is completed. If you’re not, remember your tuition is free if you’re in-district. If you’re not, MI-Reconnect only pays part of the tuition.
  3. Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) This is financial aid provided by the federal government.
  4. Enroll in an eligible program and start classes. You must be enrolled in classes at HFC at least half-time (six credits minimum) and stay enrolled continuously through graduation.

Getting more information

To attend an upcoming information session, select the session that fits your schedule. Information is also available on the College’s Michigan Reconnect website.

For questions or more information, about MI-Reconnect at HFC, contact Beth Michel at 313-317-6803 or bamichel@hfcc.edu.

If applicants are still not sure about their eligibility for the Michigan Reconnect scholarship, call 517-636-7000.