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MI GEAR UP Scholarship

MI GEAR UP Scholarship

Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is a Federal program designed to provide early intervention services and programs to students in middle school and high school. MI GEAR UP Scholarship targets low-income students by providing them with support services to increase their opportunity to succeed in postsecondary education.

Eligibility

  • File a current-year Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  • Have successfully completed the MI GEAR UP program and been nominated to receive an award.
  • Possess a high school diploma or recognized equivalent certificate.
  • Initiate enrollment at a participating institution prior to age 22.
  • Enroll at least half-time at an approved Michigan degree-granting college or university.
  • Be a Michigan resident.
  • If a dependent student, parent must also be a Michigan resident.
  • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or approved refugee.
  • Not be in default on a Federal student loan.
  • For renewal, meet institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.

Application Process

  • Only nominated MI GEAR UP participants will be eligible to be considered for a scholarship.
  • Nominated students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  • The first institution listed on the FAFSA will be considered the priority school. Students are responsible for notifying MI Student Aid of a change in their college choice. This can be done through the MiSSG Student Portal or by calling 1-888-447-2687.

Program Limits

Selected nominees may receive a scholarship for up to two academic years to be completed within four years from the date of graduation.

The scholarship expires at the end of Academic Year 2027-28 (Summer 2028).

Participating Institutions

Michigan community college, public university, or degree-granting non-profit independent college.

Award Amount

The maximum award amount a student may receive is $2,000 per academic year (beginning 2023-24). The lifetime maximum award is $4,000. 

Additional Resources

Fact Sheet

Find the program details for financial aid professionals.

MI GEAR UP (español)

MI GEAR UP برنامج

Fact Sheet in Spanish
Find the program details for financial aid professionals in Spanish.

Authority

Higher Education Amendment of 1998 Public Law 105-244.