University of Michigan–Flint Scholarships (2025–2026)
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- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit ranges and who typically qualifies
- Competitive and hidden-gem scholarships worth a look
- Honors perks and how to stack awards the smart way
Paying for college doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At the University of Michigan–Flint, families can tap into a mix of automatic merit scholarships, full-tuition opportunities, and community-based programs like the Go Blue Guarantee and Flint Promise. This page breaks down what those options really look like—so you can compare them side by side and see how much your student might actually pay.
Looking for state-level aid too? Check out our Michigan State Aid Guide along with our full College Scholarships Hub.
💰 Cost of Attendance at University of Michigan–Flint
| Expense | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees (Annual, Lower Division) | $19,628 | $64,884 |
| Housing & Meals (Estimated) | $15,328 | $15,328 |
| Total (before aid) | $34,956 | $80,212 |
Average Net Price: According to federal data, the average UM–Flint student paid about $12,344 per year in 2022–23 after grants and scholarships (no loans included). This is what families actually paid out of pocket, on average.
Special Tuition Programs:
- Go Blue Guarantee: Michigan residents with household income under $125,000 (and modest assets) may receive full in-state tuition if they meet GPA requirements (3.5 for new freshmen, 3.0 for continuing students). FAFSA required.
- Detroit Promise: Covers tuition for eligible Detroit graduates after grants and scholarships.
- Flint Promise: Covers tuition for graduates from qualifying Flint high schools after other aid.
Cost & Special Aid FAQs
Who qualifies for the Go Blue Guarantee?
Michigan residents with household income up to $125,000 and modest assets, plus GPA requirements (3.5 for first-year admits, 3.0 for continuing students).
How much do Promise programs actually cover?
Both Detroit Promise and Flint Promise cover the remaining tuition balance after Pell Grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships are applied.
Do I have to apply separately?
The Go Blue Guarantee is automatic once you file the FAFSA. Promise programs require an opt-in process through their own program offices.
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maize & Blue Merit Scholarship | $1,000 – $10,000/yr (4 years) | First-year admits; GPA + optional SAT/ACT; award level based on profile | No | Yes – 2.75 GPA + 12–18 credits/term | $8k–$10k tiers often go to ~3.7+ GPA and 1260+ SAT / 27+ ACT*; $3k–$5k tiers ~3.3–3.6 GPA or mid-1100s SAT* |
| True Blue Merit Scholarship | Full in-state tuition & fees | High-achieving admits by Mar 1; limited capacity | No | Yes – 3.0 GPA + 12–18 credits/term | Typically 3.7+ GPA and 1260+ SAT / 27+ ACT*; strongest profiles receive invitations |
| First Year Opportunity Scholarship | $1,000/yr (GPA 2.7–3.69) $3,000/yr (GPA 3.7+) |
For test-optional admits; GPA-only | No | Yes – SAP + full-time status | Students choosing not to submit scores; awards scaled to GPA |
*Estimated GPA/test bands are based on UM-Flint guidance and past award patterns; actual cutoffs vary depending on applicant pool and funding.
Automatic Merit FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for these awards?
No. All admitted first-year students are automatically considered.
Are test scores required?
No. Scholarships are GPA-based first. Submitting SAT/ACT scores can only help; test-optional students still qualify through the First Year Opportunity Scholarship.
Can these awards stack with other aid?
They can usually be combined with need-based aid and external scholarships, but full tuition awards (like True Blue) may cap stacking at tuition/fees. Always confirm with Financial Aid.
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
In addition to automatic awards, UM–Flint invites top freshmen to compete for a small number of highly selective scholarships. These scholarships are limited in number, require early applications, and usually cover full tuition. They are open to the general first-year student body—not tied to honors or specific majors.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Tuition Scholarship Competition | Full in-state tuition & fees | By invitation; typically 3.7+ GPA and 1260+ SAT / 27+ ACT* | No (invited after applying by Dec 1) | Yes – maintain GPA & full-time enrollment | High-achieving students with strong academics, leadership, and early application (competition held in Feb) |
| Chancellor’s Scholars Program (Genesee County) | Up to full tuition & fees | Graduating seniors from Genesee County with top academic and leadership records | Yes – application through UM–Flint scholarship portal | Yes – must maintain GPA and SAP | Local students with 3.7+ GPA, leadership roles, and community service experience |
*Estimated GPA/test bands based on published UM–Flint guidance; actual thresholds vary each year depending on applicant pool and funding.
Competitive Scholarship FAQs
Why are these called “competitive”?
They’re limited in number, awarded to top applicants only, and often require participation in a special competition or a separate application.
When should students apply?
Students should complete their UM–Flint admission application by December 1 to remain eligible for invitation-only full-tuition competitions.
Can competitive scholarships be stacked with other aid?
Typically, full-tuition awards replace other tuition-specific scholarships but may stack with outside/private scholarships up to the total cost of attendance.
Do these awards require essays or interviews?
Yes. The full-tuition competition includes an interview process. The Chancellor’s Scholars Program usually requires an application essay and recommendation letters.
⭐ College Specialty
UM–Flint is part of the University of Michigan system, giving students access to one of the most respected brands in higher education while still enjoying a smaller, close-knit campus. It isn’t an R1 research powerhouse like Ann Arbor, but UM–Flint has carved out its own statewide reputation for professional programs, hands-on learning, and strong community ties—especially in healthcare and business.
🏅 Nursing (BSN): UM–Flint’s undergraduate nursing program is regularly ranked among the top nursing schools in Michigan and has earned recognition in national U.S. News & World Report rankings for its undergraduate nursing offerings. This program is a cornerstone of the campus and a major draw for health-focused students statewide.
- Business (School of Management): Ranked among the Top 25 Affordable Entrepreneurship Programs nationally and Top 15 Online International Business Programs (UniversityHQ, 2024).
- Education: Recognized across Michigan for preparing teachers and principals, with strong placement in local school districts and partnerships throughout Genesee County.
- Engineering & Technology (College of Innovation & Technology): Home to ABET-accredited Mechanical Engineering and cutting-edge labs focused on automotive, AI, and advanced manufacturing.
- Public Health: Statewide reputation for community-based health programs, including collaborations with hospitals and nonprofits in Flint and surrounding counties.
🎖️ Honors College
The University of Michigan–Flint Honors Program is designed for motivated students who want more than just a traditional degree. It offers small, discussion-based courses, one-on-one faculty mentorship, and the chance to dive deep into a thesis or creative project. For many first-gen families, this program can be a way for students to stand out without leaving the supportive environment of a regional campus.
What a Typical UM–Flint Honors Student Looks Like:
High school GPA of 3.7+*, strong rigor in coursework (AP, IB, dual enrollment), and leadership or service experience. Many successful applicants also score around 1260+ SAT or 27+ ACT* when submitting test scores.
*Estimated bands based on program guidance and full-tuition competition profiles; actual thresholds vary by year.
Perks that Matter:
- Priority course registration and access to small, seminar-style classes
- Dedicated Honors housing community with scholarship support
- Faculty-mentored thesis or capstone project
- Funding for research, travel, and study abroad experiences
Honors Program FAQs
Is admission automatic?
No. Students must submit a separate application to the Honors Program and are reviewed competitively.
Does the Honors Program add time to a degree?
Not usually. With good planning, most students graduate on time, though the thesis requirement can add workload in the junior/senior years.
When should students apply?
Incoming freshmen should apply soon after admission—ideally by early spring—to maximize chances of admission and scholarship consideration.
Are there extra scholarships tied to Honors?
While there are no separate full-ride Honors awards, students in the Leadership & Honors housing community may receive a housing scholarship that offsets room costs.
📎 Official Links
Final Thoughts
For many families, UM–Flint offers a unique balance: the power of the Michigan name paired with the affordability of a regional campus. Between automatic merit scholarships, full-tuition opportunities, and place-based programs like the Go Blue Guarantee and Flint Promise, most students won’t pay the “sticker price.” Add in strong programs in nursing, business, and education, and this campus can be a smart fit—especially for first-gen families looking for value and opportunity close to home.
✅ Last updated: September 6, 2025