TICAS Applauds Michigan Legislature’s Continued Commitment to College Affordability

LANSING, M.I. – This week, the Michigan House and Senate revealed their proposals for the 2026–27 state budget. Both budgets are aligned in making critical investments in affordable higher education pathways by proposing to spend just under $700 million, an increase from last year, to support the state’s cornerstone financial aid programs, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and the Tuition Incentive Program. Importantly, the Senate concurred with the governor’s proposal to invest in lowering the age of eligibility for the Michigan Reconnect program down to 21.

The following is attributed to Jessica Thompson, Interim President and Executive Vice President of The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS):

“TICAS applauds the legislature’s continued, unified commitment to ensuring that every Michigander has a more affordable pathway to the postsecondary degrees or credentials they need to thrive. The proposed funding for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, Tuition Incentive Program, and Reconnect program will continue to ensure new and continuing students have the support they need to access, afford, and be successful in higher education. Lowering the age of eligibility for Reconnect to 21 will bring the state one step closer to eliminating an age gap in financial aid eligibility that disincentives students from pursuing a degree or credential if they are between 21 and 25. This change will increase access and simplify financial aid messaging for all prospective students.

“MiLEAP’s 2025 report underscored the importance of meeting students’ basic needs for their ability to complete their credentials and enter the workforce with enhanced earning potential. All students will benefit from college initiatives that support safe and secure housing and food, and targeted wraparound supports are especially important in Michigan’s rural communities, where students often have less access to reliable broadband and transportation. As the legislature and executive work to finalize the state budget, we urge them to build on these investments in postsecondary affordability by adding small, targeted investments in student wrap-around supports, including the College Success & Student Wraparound grants, Transportation Economic Development program, and Rural Prosperity program.”