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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.