Michigan GI Bill Tuition and Residency Requirements

Michigan GI Bill Tuition Rates

Changes to the Post-9/11 GI Bill in 2011 could affect tuition benefits for military personnel attending public colleges and universities in Michigan. While the original Post-9/11 GI Bill granted the same tuition benefits to out-of-state students as it did to students attending private colleges, the new version--known as GI Bill 2.0--limits tuition benefits at public schools to the in-state rate. That means out-of-state students have to find a way to cover the additional costs.

Michigan Residency for Military Personnel

In Michigan, each public college or university sets its own residency guidelines, so you should check with your school's registrar for more detailed information on your school's requirements.

At many schools in the state, you must have lived in Michigan for at least six to twelve months prior to enrollment and demonstrated evidence of intent to remain in Michigan after graduate.

Whether Michigan offers military exceptions to these guidelines depends on both the school you attend and your military status. Here's a look at some regulations for different types of military personnel.

1. Under federal law, active-duty military personnel stationed in Michigan as well as their spouses and dependent children are eligible for in-state tuition rates. Since this is a federal law, it applies to all public colleges and universities in the state, but the application process may vary.
2. At some schools, such as Ferris State University and Michigan State University, eligible veterans who receive an honorable discharge and move to Michigan within 90 days can receive in-state tuition, provided they intend to become permanent residents. Their spouses and dependents may also be eligible for this benefit.
3. National Guard and Reserve members, along with their spouses and eligible dependents, who spent at least 12 months on active military service can also receive in-state tuition rates at Michigan State University, provided they demonstrate intent to make Michigan their permanent home.

Although each school has its own application process, military personnel claiming in-state status may be required to submit supporting documents such as a copy of military orders or proof of honorable discharge. Your school's admissions office can provide more details on residency requirements and eligibility for military personnel.

Other State Benefits in Michigan

Certain military dependents can qualify for the Children of Veterans Tuition Grant Act, which offers tuition scholarships to Michigan residents enrolled at least half-time at eligible Michigan colleges. To qualify, you must be between the ages of 17 and 25 and be the dependent of a Michigan veteran who died or was permanently and totally disabled due to service-related causes. Dependents of veterans who are listed as missing in action are also eligible. To find out if your school participates, contact the Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs.

GIBill.com has done its best to ensure that the above information is accurate. However, GIBill.com cannot guarantee its accuracy and encourages you to check with your school for its residency requirements to qualify for in-state tuition.