There’s a new opportunity for help with college costs, available to Grand Rapids residents who graduate from a high school within the city – including Catholic Central High School, Sacred Heart Academy, and West Catholic High School.
Local officials approved the Grand Rapids Promise Scholarship plan on Jan. 13. The program will cover up to two years of tuition at Grand Rapids Community College, along with books, supplies and other fees. That means eligible students could have job training, certifications, or even their associates degrees paid for!
How much funding a student can receive through the program depends on how long he or she both lived in Grand Rapids and attended a high school there:
- Since 9th or 10th grade: 100% scholarship
- Since 11th grade: 50% scholarship
- For 12th grade only: Not eligible
Other eligibility requirements include completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form by March 1. That’s because the Promise Scholarship covers costs after federal student aid is awarded. Additionally, once at GRCC, students must also adhere to the college’s standards of academic progress.
In addition to federal need-based aid, the Grand Rapids Promise Scholarship is also funded through private and corporate donations, including $500,000 from GRCC, and short-term loans. In the third year of operation, the program may qualify to begin receiving state funding, as well.
The program is governed by the Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority, an 11-member board. Superintendent of Catholic Schools Dave Faber is a member.
For more information about the Grand Rapids Promise Scholarship, visit https://grpromisezone.com/, email promisezone@grcc.edu, or call 616-234-4321.
There are other promise zones around Michigan, as well. For instance, Muskegon Catholic Central graduates have access to the Muskegon Area Promise, which funds up to two years at Muskegon Community College and Baker College of Muskegon.
To learn about enrolling in a Catholic school, contact our admissions team at this link or by clicking the button below.
Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids are an alliance of 31 vibrant learning communities (26 elementary and five high schools) serving more than 6,340 preschool through 12th grade students throughout West Michigan. Our schools inspire young people to grow in Catholic faith and grace, achieve more in school and life, develop creativity and character, and feel welcomed and cherished for their unique gifts. We partner with parents to awaken the whole child to a world of light and life — that grows better and brighter when children reach their potential.
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