10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Michigan

If you're looking for online learning opportunities in Michigan, you may also wonder how to pay for them. You hope to receive financial aid through the FAFSA, but does that cover online degrees? And if so, which online colleges accept the FAFSA?

There are 161 colleges and universities throughout Michigan eligible to receive funding through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many of these schools offer on-campus and online programs, providing a diverse learning experience for students from all walks of life. Keep reading to learn more about these online colleges in Michigan.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Michigan

Pursuing an online education makes getting a degree easier for many students who might not be able to earn a degree otherwise. If you have financial need and want to complete a college degree or certificate online, check out the list of accredited Michigan schools below.

1. University of Michigan-Flint

The University of Michigan-Flint is a public school that was established in 1956. It is located in Flint and has around 6,400 students. Various online certificate and degree programs are available in subjects like:

• healthcare administration
• social work
• philosophy

Bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees are all available. Out-of-state students at this school pay reduced tuition rates for online programs, helping them earn an affordable education. Use school code 002327 on the FAFSA.

2. Michigan State University

Michigan State University is a large public school located in East Lansing. The school was founded in 1855 and currently enrolls more than 51,000 students.

The school offers online bachelor's degrees and doctoral degrees in nursing along with many master's degrees and certificate programs. Subjects include criminal justice, education, and food safety. If you want to attend this school online and receive FAFSA funding for your education, enter school code 002290.

3. Western Michigan University

Western Michigan University is a public school with nearly 16,000 students. It is located in Kalamazoo and was founded in 1903.

Various undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, and minors are available online in subjects like cybersecurity, psychology, and comparative religion. Online learners can complete bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees along with both graduate and undergraduate certificates. To send your FAFSA information to this school, enter code 002330 on the form.

4. Northern Michigan University

Northern Michigan University is located in Marquette. This public school has about 7,200 students enrolled in online and in-person degree programs. Several online classes and degree programs are available. Four of these are online master's programs; the rest are online bachelor's degrees in subjects such as:

• business administration
• construction management
• nursing

Consider this school if you're looking for a flexible online college with a generous transfer credit policy. Use school code 002301 on the FAFSA.

5. Central Michigan University

Central Michigan University is a public college in Mount Pleasant. The school enrolls around 14,600 students and offers over 200 degree and certificate programs. Many of these academic programs are available online. Remote students can complete bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees and certificates in fields like:

• athletic coaching
• information systems
• political science

Affordable in-state tuition is charged for all students regardless of residency. To have your FAFSA information sent to this school, enter school code 002243.

6. Davenport University

Davenport University is a private school headquartered in Grand Rapids, though it has campuses throughout the state. It was the first college in Michigan to provide online degree programs.

Students can choose to complete online courses through asynchronous activities or livestream sessions. Students can pursue associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. They can also enroll in certificate programs. To receive federal funds at this school, enter code 002249 on the FAFSA application.

7. Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University is a public school in Allendale. It opened its doors in 1960 and currently enrolls more than 24,000 students.

Several online programs are available. Most are graduate programs for master's degrees and certificates, but some minors, undergraduate certificates, and bachelor's degrees are also available. Use school code 002268 when completing the FAFSA.

8. Baker College

Baker College is a private, nonprofit university enrolling around 5,000 students. It is located in Owasso and was founded in 1911.

Various online degree programs are available; some are asynchronous courses, while others allow students to participate in live sessions remotely. Online students can pursue degrees in subjects like computer science, early childhood education, and human resource management. The school's FAFSA code is 004673.

9. Ferris State University

Ferris State University is located in Big Rapids. This public school has been around since 1884 and boasts a current enrollment of around 10,300 students.

More than 30 degrees and certificates are available for online learners. Students can complete their education full- or part-time depending on what works best for them. If you want your FAFSA information sent to this school, enter code 002260.

10. Oakland University

Oakland University is a public school with campuses located in Rochester Hills and Auburn Hills in Oakland County. It is a fairly new school, having opened its doors in 1957, and it enrolls more than 16,000 students.

Students can pursue higher education in various online programs at this school. A wealth of undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates are available online, along with several minors. Students can use school code 002307 when filling out the FAFSA.

Applying for FAFSA in Michigan

Whether you're a high school student completing the FAFSA for the first time or an adult student trying to navigate the application, you may have questions about what you must do to get the funding you need. Below, we'll discuss the eligibility requirements for the FAFSA and the steps you can take to complete it.

Eligibility

To obtain financial aid through the FAFSA, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen
• have a social security number
• attend or be accepted into a degree or certificate program
• not be in default on any federal student loan
• maintain satisfactory academic progress

It's also important to choose an accredited school. The FAFSA only funds institutions that have received regional or national accreditation through an organization such as the Higher Learning Commission.

Steps to Apply

To complete your FAFSA application, follow these steps:

• Set up a FSA ID and create an account on FAFSA.gov
• complete all fields on the application
• have parents or guardians complete required fields if you are filing as a dependent
• upload all required financial documents
• sign and submit the application

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Michigan

Michigan residents can access several state-funded programs that complement FAFSA to make online education more affordable. These options help reduce tuition costs and provide additional support for a wide range of students.

Michigan Tuition Grant

The Michigan Tuition Grant provides need-based aid to residents attending private colleges and universities within the state. To qualify, you must complete the FAFSA and demonstrate financial need as determined by the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Online learners at participating private institutions can apply this grant toward tuition and required fees. Awards are renewable each year as long as students meet enrollment and academic progress requirements.

Michigan Achievement Scholarship

The Michigan Achievement Scholarship offers substantial aid to recent high school graduates who plan to attend college in Michigan, including online programs. To be eligible, you must complete the FAFSA and meet the scholarship’s income and residency requirements.

Funds can be used at public, private, and independent colleges that offer online degrees. This scholarship helps students start their college journey with less financial stress and greater flexibility.

Fostering Futures Scholarship

The Fostering Futures Scholarship supports students who have experienced foster care in Michigan after age 13. Eligible applicants must complete the FAFSA and submit a separate state application to receive up to $3,000 per year for tuition and other college expenses.

Online learners who qualify can use the scholarship for degree programs at Michigan public or private institutions. This program provides meaningful assistance to students working toward financial independence and academic success.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Michigan

Still have questions about using FAFSA to fund your online education in Michigan? Below are detailed answers to help you better understand how the process works.

Does FAFSA Cover All Costs for Attending College in Michigan?

FAFSA can significantly reduce the cost of attending college, but it typically doesn’t cover every expense. The amount you receive depends on your financial need, the cost of your program, and your enrollment status.

Most students combine FAFSA aid with scholarships, grants, or work-study programs to fully cover their costs. Exploring state-funded options like the Michigan Achievement Scholarship can also help fill any remaining financial gaps.

How Can I Tell If a Michigan Online College Accepts FAFSA?

Most accredited Michigan colleges that participate in federal aid programs accept FAFSA. You can verify this by checking for the school’s federal code on its website or by using the school search tool on studentaid.gov.

If you’re still unsure, reach out directly to the school’s financial aid office. They can confirm participation and guide you through the steps to include their code on your FAFSA form.

Do I Need to Renew My FAFSA Each Year for Michigan Colleges?

Yes, you must renew your FAFSA every academic year to remain eligible for aid. Each new submission updates your financial information and determines your eligibility for the upcoming school year.

Renewing your FAFSA early ensures you don’t miss out on available funding opportunities. It also helps schools process your financial aid package before tuition bills are due.

Find an Affordable Online College in Michigan

Michigan offers several state and federal programs that make earning a degree online more affordable. Explore accredited online colleges on Learn.org and contact schools directly to find programs and financial aid options that meet your educational goals.