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September 26, 2025
Completing the FAFSA Helps Michiganders Save Money While Earning a Skill Certificate or Degree Including up to $5,500 Annually Through the Michigan Achievement Scholarship or Nearly $7,400 Through the Federal Pell Grant
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP) is announcing today that students and families can now complete the 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), ahead of the anticipated Oct. 1 open date.
“Applying for financial aid should be the first priority for every Michigan family considering higher education,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea, director of MiLEAP. “The FAFSA unlocks federal grants, state grants and scholarships such as the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and institutional aid that can make education more affordable and attainable.”
Completing the FAFSA is the gateway to a range of financial aid grants and scholarships that make college and career training more affordable, including:
These efforts reinforce the state’s commitment to ensuring every student has the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to pursue their educational and career goals. MiLEAP recently announced that more than 65,000 students from Michigan’s Class of 2025 (representing 55.4% of graduates) completed the FAFSA as of Sept. 8, 2025.
What Families Should Know
File Early: Some aid is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Submitting the FAFSA as soon as possible, now that the FAFSA is open, maximizes eligibility.
Use Accurate Information: Families will need their 2024 income and tax information, Social Security Numbers, and other personal details to complete the form.
Apply Online: The FAFSA can be submitted at FAFSA.gov, where families can also find resources and assistance. Most students and families can complete the application in less than 15 minutes.
Help is Available: Michigan students and families can get free help completing the FAFSA through their school counselors, local colleges, community organizations, and MiLEAP-supported outreach events. You can also reach out to the MI Student Aid team at 888-447-2687.
“Every year, thousands of Michigan students leave money on the table by not completing the FAFSA,” said Sarah Szurpicki, deputy director of MiLEAP’s Office of Higher Education. “The FAFSA is free to complete and I strongly encourage families to apply, even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for aid. Filing early can help ensure you don’t miss out on financial aid that could make the difference between attending college or putting it off.”
For additional information on state scholarships, tools to help complete the FAFSA and more, visit Michigan.gov/MiStudentAid.
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