MCAN celebrates budget wins, evaluates tough cuts

Education priorities mostly survive tough, drawn-out negotiations over fiscal year 2026 budget
Hundreds of Michigan schools, organizations work to boost college applications, FAFSA completions among seniors
Four key organizations join higher education-focused cross-sector collaborative
College remains a powerful tool in unlocking opportunities for personal and professional growth, career advancement, and financial stability. By helping students explore their options, we can help them make an informed decision about the education and skills needed to help them achieve their career goals in this ever-changing job market and economy.
It’s no secret that college affordability is a major concern for many, but the good of attending outweighs the bad. It’s insurance for a successful future, that while always uncertain, can aid in navigating that uncertainty. People with this education have the critical and foundational skills for life and work in a general sense like adaptability, which is crucial in these evolving industries.
Navigating the world of financial aid can be a daunting task for students and their families. With unfamiliar terminology, deadline pressure, and not knowing where to go for support, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, there are several free, reliable tools designed to help simplify the process.
Soo Leader
After months of difficult negotiation that nearly pushed the state into a government shutdown, the Michigan legislature and governor’s office were able to come together and pass a bipartisan fiscal year 2026 budget early this morning. Michigan College Access Network, along with our partners in K-12 and higher education, are digging through the budget bills, evaluating what they mean for Michigan’s students and families.
MLive
The budget’s higher education plan, which marginally increases operational funds for all 15 of Michigan’s public universities and more than two dozen community colleges, may fall short of some priorities that industry leaders stumped for as state budget talks rolled on this fall.
Soo Leader
With application fees waived at many colleges, Michigan's annual College Month is providing critical support to thousands of high school seniors preparing for their next steps