Michigan Community College Guarantee

A College Education Within Reach — Tuition-Free at GOCC

Thanks to the Michigan Community College Guarantee, your path to a college degree at Glen Oaks Community College could now be 100% tuition-free. Specifically for high school graduates of those who have earned a GED  in 2023 or later,  this opportunity opens the door to an affordable, high-quality education—close to home.

What Is the Michigan Community College Guarantee?

The Michigan Community College Guarantee, funded through the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, helps qualifying students attend their local community college with little or no out-of-pocket tuition cost. Glen Oaks Community College is proud to participate in this statewide program to expand access to education and economic mobility.

If you are eligible, your in-district tuition and mandatory fees at GOCC could be covered for up to three years, reducing or eliminating student loan debt.

Who Qualifies?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Graduated from a Michigan high school in 2023 or after (public, private, or homeschool)
  • Have a Student Aid Index (SAI) of $30,000 or less as calculated by the FAFSA
  • Enroll full-time in a certificate or associate degree program at Glen Oaks
  • Apply for the FAFSA annually

You must meet basic eligibility requirements, but you do not need to have perfect grades or test scores. This program is designed to help more students—especially from rural and working-class communities—get to college and finish strong.

What Does the Guarantee Cover?

  • In-district tuition and mandatory fees for up to three academic years
  • Covers certificate, associate degree, or transfer programs

Students can combine this scholarship with Pell Grants, local scholarships, and other forms of aid to minimize total costs.

Why Choose Glen Oaks?

At Glen Oaks, we go beyond tuition savings. We offer:

  • Small class sizes and personalized advising
  • Career-ready programs in health, skilled trades, business, and technology
  • Transfer pathways to universities like WMU, Ferris, and MSU
  • A welcoming campus culture focused on student success, affordability, and access

Serving students across St. Joseph, Branch, Cass, Calhoun, and Kalamazoo Counties in Michigan  GOCC is a top local choice for high-impact, debt-free education.

How to Get Started

  1. Complete your FAFSA – Be sure to list Glen Oaks Community College (School Code: 002263)
  2. Apply to Glen Oaks – It’s free and takes just a few minutes
  3. Meet with a Financial Aid to confirm your eligibility

Already submitted your FAFSA? We’ll help you take the next step.

FAQs

Q: What’s the difference between the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and the Community College Guarantee?
A: The Guarantee is powered by the Achievement Scholarship but ensures that students attending community colleges receive full tuition coverage if eligible.

Q: What programs are covered?
A: All associate degrees and approved certificate programs offered by GOCC, including nursing, welding, automotive, and business.

Q: Can I transfer to a university after?
A: Yes! GOCC has transfer agreements with multiple four-year institutions.

Q: Does it cover books and housing?
A: No, but other grants and resources may help cover those costs. Talk to Financial Aid for a complete plan.

Next Steps