Oakland Community College
Michigan Reconnect

Michigan Reconnect

Get Free Tuition to Earn a Degree or Certificate

OCC, in partnership with the Michigan Reconnect program, can help you qualify for in-demand jobs—tuition free.  The program offers free in-district tuition to qualifying Michigan residents. Increase your earnings and career opportunities by earning an associate degree or certificate. You'll have four years to complete one program of study.

Who Qualifies? 

Michigan residents must meet all the following criteria:

  • At least 25 years of age
  • U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Hold a high school diploma or GED
  • Do not currently hold a college or university degree

Complete These Steps to Apply!

  1. Apply to the Michigan Reconnect scholarship program
  2. Complete a Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application (Even if you don't think you'll qualify for federal financial aid, the FASFA application is required to be considered for Michigan Reconnect funding)
  3. Become an OCC student using one of the checklists below:
  4. Regsiter and attend a minimum of six credits (generally two classes)

Already participating in the Michigan Reconnect program?
You are eligible to continue to participate in the Michigan Reconnect scholarship program until you complete your degree or for up to 4 years from the date you began the program. To remain eligible, please complete the following:

  • Maintain continuous enrollment as at least a half-time student in a Title IV eligible program at an eligible institution leading to an associate degree or industry-recognized certificate or credential, unless an authorized leave of absence is granted.
  • Complete at least six-credit hours in a semester and earn a minimum of 12 credit hours in a 12-month period.
  • Maintain at least a 2.0 GPA while in the program.
  • Submit a FAFSA every year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What costs are not covered by the Michigan Reconnect program?

The program does not cover any of the following costs:

  • Textbooks, supplies, or required equipment
  • Class fees (vary by course)
  • Transportation
  • Childcare

However, through a new partnership with Oakland County Michigan Works, eligible residents may receive additional financial support to cover these expenses. This support is made possible through the American Rescue Plan. Contact your nearest Oakland County Michigan Works! office between 8 am - 5 pm, Monday-Friday, to learn about your specific case.

What additional supports are available for Michigan Reconnect students?

Through a new partnership with Oakland County Michigan Works, eligible residents may receive additional financial support to cover these expenses. This support is made possible through the American Rescue Plan. Contact your nearest Oakland County Michigan Works! office between 8 am - 5 pm, Monday-Friday, to learn about your specific case.

I have a degree from another school. Am I eligible for the Reconnect Program?

Unfortunately, the program is only eligible to applicants who have not received a degree.

I am an out-of-district student. Can I still enroll at Oakland Community College?

Yes, you can use your Reconnect scholarship at Oakland Community College. The Reconnect scholarship will cover the cost of in-district tuition and fees. Out-of-district students will be responsible for the additional costs of tuition and fees.

I received an email from Financial Aid stating I need to complete an SAP appeal. Do I need to complete the SAP appeal?

Students participating in the Reconnect Program will not be required to complete the SAP appeal to receive the Reconnect scholarship.

Do I have to complete a FAFSA application?

Students participating in the Reconnect Program will not be required to complete the SAP appeal to receive the Reconnect scholarship.

My Reconnect scholarship is described as “restricted.” Why?

The Reconnect Scholarship is limited to the cost of in-district tuition and fees. It cannot be used towards any other costs including books and supplies.

How will I know if the State of Michigan approved my application for the Michigan Reconnect Scholarship Program?

After completing and submitting the application successfully, you will immediately receive an automated on-screen response.

How will I know if I successfully submitted my Oakland Community College application and was admitted to OCC?

First, you’ll receive a confirmation email stating your application has been received. Within two business days, you will receive an email with your admissions letter and student number in your personal email account.

How will I know if my FAFSA application was processed and the amount of my Reconnect/Financial Aid award?

If no further information is needed for your financial aid, all students that have successfully completed an application to the State of Michigan and an application to Oakland Community College will receive emails in their OCC student email accounts within 7-10 days after successfully completing and submitting their FAFSAs.

How can I check my Financial Award status if I have not yet activated my OCC student email?

Students may check their award status using Financial Aid’s Self-Service after logging in to MyOCC, selecting students, and then Financial Aid Self-Service.


Additional Questions?

If you need more specific information, visit Michigan Reconnect or email Michigan Reconnect.