The Detroit Promise is a transformative scholarship program that offers all eligible Detroit residents a tuition-free path to an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or technical certificate at participating academic institutions. Through a strong partnership with Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD), the program has been making a significant impact on Detroit's students' lives.

Eligibility and Application

To be eligible for the Detroit Promise, students must have completed and submitted to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and fulfilled all college financial aid requirements. For community college funding, students must have lived in Detroit and attended a Detroit high school during their junior and senior years. University funding may have additional GPA and ACT/SAT requirements, and students must have lived in Detroit and graduated from a Detroit high school for all four years.

All Detroit high schools, including public, private, charter, and parochial schools, are eligible for the Detroit Promise program. This school year, at Crockett Midtown High School of Science and Medicine (CMHS), 2,317 students from the graduating class of 2024 have applied for the scholarship, along with 2,202 students in grades 9-11.

FAFSA Submission for Detroit Promise Eligibility

A critical step in securing the Detroit Promise scholarship involves submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This process is essential not only for determining federal financial aid eligibility but also for qualifying for the Detroit Promise. Only students who complete the FAFSA are eligible for state and federal grant money as well as scholarships including the Detroit Promise.  The priority deadline for FAFSA submission is July 1.  It is imperative for students and their families to complete the FAFSA to ensure they do not miss out on federal and state aid. The FAFSA can be completed online through the US Department of Education's website, or students can seek assistance from their high school counselors.

DPSCD and Detroit Promise: A Strong Partnership

DPSCD has been working closely with Detroit Promise since the scholarship's inception in 2016.  The Detroit Promise team regularly visits DPSCD schools to increase awareness and assist with application completion. They also share data with DPSCD central office staff to identify gaps and provide additional support where needed.

"This partnership has had a profound impact on DPSCD students' ability to attend college with limited financial debt. By reducing the financial burden, the Detroit Promise enables students to focus on their studies, pursue their passions, and achieve their academic goals", says Nicole Carter, Senior Director of High School Counseling

A Principal's Perspective

One DPSCD principal, who has made it a goal to ensure that 100% of eligible students at their school apply for the Detroit Promise, shares his insights:

"It is extremely important that all of my students know about and apply for this scholarship opportunity for a variety of reasons. First, it is a motivational tool to do well in school and graduate with a high academic standing. Second, it is a financial tool that will give them the opportunity to attain their postsecondary goals and know they will be able to afford to go to a college or university. Third, it is a goal-setting tool for their future, meaning that students will be able to envision themselves graduating from high school, completing a postsecondary education, then becoming a valuable member of our society by entering the work force and becoming a critical part of the greater good,” said Dr. Sean Lively Principal at CMHS.

The school has infused the benefits of the Detroit Promise scholarship into their Individualized Learning Plan (ILP) program, encouraging students to set goals and build their capacity with a growth mindset.

A Bright Future for Detroit's Students

The Detroit Promise is not just a scholarship; it is a beacon of hope for Detroit's students. By providing a clear path to higher education and reducing financial barriers, the program is empowering students to pursue their dreams and become valuable members of society.

As more students become aware of and apply for the Detroit Promise, the future of Detroit grows brighter. With the continued support of DPSCD and the dedication of educators, the Detroit Promise will undoubtedly continue to transform lives and contribute to the city's ongoing renaissance. #TheFutureisRising

For more information visit www.detroitpromise.com