Ferris State University has signed on as one of six new college partners for the program,
which is administered by the Detroit Regional Chamber in partnership with the Detroit
Promise Zone authority.
Students living in Detroit or attending a city school will be able to attend Ferris State University tuition free starting this fall as the university becomes a partner in the Detroit Promise, improving access to a life-changing education.
Ferris State is one of six new college partners for the program, which is administered by the Detroit Regional Chamber in partnership with the Detroit Promise Zone authority.
“The Detroit Promise Zone removes tuition cost as a barrier to getting a quality education,” Ferris State President Bill Pink said. “Ferris State has enjoyed a strong history of having students from southeast Michigan enrolled on our campus, and I see this partnership as another tool to help Detroit students become Ferris State Bulldogs.”
Funding from Detroit Promise will cover up to the full cost of tuition minus federal, state and other university merit or need-based aid. This award is renewable for up to four consecutive years of study.
Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA, and have a have a minimum cumulative high school grade point average of 3.0 to qualify.
Students must maintain a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA at Ferris State and must be enrolled in at least 12 or more credit hours during the fall and spring semesters on the main campus in Big Rapids or the Kendall College of Art and Design in Grand Rapids.
Ferris State joins The College for Creative Studies, Lawrence Technological University, Olivet College, Siena Heights University, and St. Clair County Community College as new partners, bringing the number to 32 colleges and universities.
“I am thrilled to be expanding our partnerships and to welcome these institutions to the Detroit Promise,” said Wytrice Harris, senior director of College Success and Partnerships for Detroit Promise. “More higher education partners mean more options for students to pursue a degree or credential that will shape their futures. This growing support speaks to the value of this program for the students and educational institutions involved, as well as for the future of the state’s workforce and economy.”
The program also provides campus coaches through the Detroit Promise Path. These coaches provide wraparound support and counsel to students through their educational journeys and personal growth to ensure their progress and success.
Detroit Promise is celebrating its 10th year in 2023 and more than 5,000 students are supported from over 50 Detroit high schools.
Information is available on the Ferris State website here, and from the university’s Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid, available by phone at (231) 591-2110 and [email protected]. Additional information is available on the Detroit Chamber site here.