The Michigan Tuition Incentive Program

The Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) is a state-funded financial assistance program that was established in 1987, under the Annual Higher Education Appropriations Act. Targeting low-income middle school and high school students, the incentive program encourages eligible students to complete high school by providing tuition assistance for the first two years of college and beyond. The program is divided into Phase I and Phase II.

Phase I: Tuition costs and fees are paid for 80 semester credits or 120 term credits leading to a certification or associate's degree.

Phase II: Students are eligible for an additional $2,000 dollars toward the costs of a bachelor's degree.

In order to receive the benefit, students must be enrolled in courses at a participating Michigan institution. The list of institutions that participate in the Tuition Incentive Program can be found on the final page of the TIP Fact Sheet.

Certificate course = A one-year minimum training program that leads to a certificate or recognized educational credential that prepares students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation.

Eligibility: Students must meet an eligibility history requirement as defined by Medicaid. Eligible students must apply prior to high school graduation; receiving a high school diploma or a recognized equivalent of diploma. 

Funds are appropriated annually in the Higher Education Appropriations Act. The program is administered by the Student Scholarships and Grants Division.

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