Oct. 20, 2026
Planning for college can be incredibly exciting. You’re probably busy exploring degree programs and what areas of study fit your unique interests. You’re looking forward to finding people who share the same passions and hobbies. And you’re excited for hands-on learning opportunities like research projects and internships.
Filling out paperwork and thinking about financial aid may not be top of mind. Plus, it can be very confusing. What is FAFSA? When should you fill it out? How do you know if you’re eligible for scholarships?
GRCC’s Financial Aid department is here to make sure paying for college feels manageable and accessible. Here’s how you can be financial aid ready.
1. Start With FAFSA
All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov. Colleges like GRCC use the application to determine your eligibility for state, federal and school-based aid.
- If you’re thinking about enrolling in college next year, fill out the 2027-2028 application.
- List GRCC as your first-choice school on your FAFSA. Search for GRCC or enter school code 002267.
- You must complete the FAFSA every year to be considered for financial aid.
2. Learn About Tuition Assistance Programs
Many students are eligible for free community college tuition or tuition assistance! Some programs require you to have a FAFSA on file.
Grand Rapids Promise Zone
The Grand Rapids Promise Zone provides free GRCC tuition for qualifying high school seniors. You are eligible if you:
- Have lived in the City of Grand Rapids since the start of 11th grade.
- Have attended one of the 25 high schools within the city limits since the start of 11th grade.
Michigan Community College Guarantee
The Michigan Community College Guarantee offers tuition assistance for recent high school graduates. To receive the award, you must
- Be a Michigan resident and graduate from high school with a diploma or equivalent.
- File a current-year FAFSA.
- Submit a high school diploma or equivalent to GRCC.
- Enroll in at least 12 credits per semester.
- Enroll within 15 months of your high school graduation.
Michigan Reconnect
If you’re 21 or older, Michigan Reconnect will cover the cost of your tuition as you pursue a degree or career training. To qualify, you must
- Be a Michigan resident and have graduated high school with a diploma or equivalent.
- Fill out the state of Michigan’s Reconnect application.
- File a current-year FAFSA.
Michigan Tuition Incentive Program (TIP)
The Michigan TIP program helps eligible Medicaid recipients attend college. Here's how to get started:
- File a current-year FAFSA.
- Submit a high school diploma or equivalent to GRCC.
- Enroll in at least six credits per semester.
- Set up your TIP portal at michigan.gov/mistudentaid/missg
3. Apply for GRCC Scholarships
The GRCC Foundation awards more than $1 million in scholarships every year. You can apply for all of them with one free application.
- Complete a FAFSA before applying.
- Apply before the priority deadline of March 15.
Visit grcc.edu/Scholarships to get started.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Navigating application portals, tax forms and deadlines can feel overwhelming, but GRCC’s Financial Aid specialists are ready to support you every step of the way.
Schedule an appointment for one-on-one assistance, call us with questions at (616) 234-4030 or stop by one of our workshops. We’re here to help!