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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 a participating institution.
  • Meet institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.
  • Be a Michigan resident since July 1 of the previous calendar year.
    • If you are a dependent student, the contributor(s) on your FAFSA must also be a Michigan resident.
    • This will be confirmed based on your FAFSA.
  • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or approved refugee.
  • Not be in default on a Federal student loan.

Application Process

Only nominated MI GEAR UP participants will be considered for a scholarship.

Nominated students must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Awards are based on the first Michigan college choice listed on the FAFSA. 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 888-447-2687.

Renewal Requirements

In addition to the initial eligibility requirements, to renew, a student must:

  • File a current-year Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  • Maintain Michigan residency.
  • Be an undergraduate student.
  • Enroll at least half-time at a participating institution.
  • Meet institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy.

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

Award Amount

The maximum award amount a student may receive is $2,000 per academic year. The lifetime maximum award is $4,000.

Additional Resources

Participating Institutions

Authority

Higher Education Amendment of 1998 Public Law 105-244.