Wayne State University is offering free college for Detroit high school graduates or Detroit residents from fall 2020.
On Wednesday, the university announced the establishment of the Heart of Detroit Tuition Pledge that will cover tuition and other mandatory fees for first-time freshmen.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with many of our institutional values,” WSU President M. Roy Wilson said.
“Opportunity, accessibility and affordability are all pillars of the high-quality education we provide, and the Heart of Detroit Tuition Pledge delivers on all those values. With the resources and opportunities on campus and the exciting resurgence in Detroit, it’s never been a better time to be a Warrior.”
The university is expecting to provide free college to at least 49,276 students currently enrolled in Detroit Public Schools and thousands of other Detroit residents.
Wayne State University Provost Keith E. Whitfield announces the Heart of Detroit Tuition Pledge offering free tuition for Detroit students who graduate from local high schools and want to stay in the city. Whitfield called it a “life-changer.” @detroitnews pic.twitter.com/TWvu2zIuBN
— Sarah Rahal (@SarahRahal_) October 23, 2019
To become eligible to receive the free tuition, students receive admission to Wayne State University as a first-time, full-time freshman in fall 2020 or after; Join RaiseMe, a micro-scholarship platform; and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1.
“This is a fantastic commitment from President Wilson and Wayne State University to help open the doors to a world-class education to even more Detroiters at a highly respected university, right here in their home town,” Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan.
Last month, the university launched the first-ever micro-scholarship-based student success initiative in collaboration with RaiseMe to promote college persistence and retention for current college students by addressing the core areas of needs that help them complete their degrees on time.
