Saginaw Valley State University will unveil a free-tuition program in the coming weeks. Central Michigan University’s program is so new it’s not yet on their website. And Ferris State joined the free tuition club two weeks ago.
There are at least 11 four-year colleges and universities with tuition-free programs for designated groups of students. Include recently announced state programs offering free community college to most Michigan adults, and colleges that accept students who qualify for a special scholarship for Detroit students, and that number swells to at least 23 four-year universities and colleges and 31 community colleges.
Some of the offers are limited to students who come from low-income families or live in specific communities. And many students could have gotten tuition for free or a deep discount before the programs were announced. Still, the programs are likely to lure more students to campuses, and help the state boost degree attainment as a means to increase