The Kalamazoo Promise

About this scholarship

The Kalamazoo Promise is a place-based scholarship for resident graduates of Kalamazoo Public Schools. It pays 65% to 100% of in-state tuition and mandatory fees at a broad list of eligible Michigan apprenticeships, community colleges, public universities, and participating private colleges. The percentage for a four-year institution depends on continuous KPS enrollment and district residency: students enrolled from kindergarten through grade 12 receive 100%, while students beginning in grade 9 receive 65%; later entry does not qualify under the standard scale. Beginning April 15, 2026, eligible scholars attending participating community colleges may receive up to 100% tuition and mandatory-fee coverage regardless of their usual 65%–100% percentage. The benefit can fund certificate, associate, or first bachelor’s study for up to 145 credits and generally must be used within ten years after high-school graduation. It does not cover housing, meals, books, course fees, or unrelated living expenses. Students create an online account and complete the scholarship application and Start Survey in the fall of senior year, then submit a Scholarship Acceptance Form after selecting a college. Recipients normally enroll full-time, pass the funded credits, and maintain both a 2.0 semester GPA and 2.0 cumulative GPA. The amount value uses Western Michigan University’s published 2026–27 resident undergraduate tuition as an illustrative annual benchmark; actual support depends on school, credits, and eligibility percentage.

Eligibility

• Graduate from Kalamazoo Public Schools in 2006 or later
• Reside within the Kalamazoo Public Schools district through graduation
• Maintain continuous KPS enrollment and district residency from at least grades 9 through 12
• Be admitted to and enroll at a Kalamazoo Promise-eligible Michigan institution or program
• Complete the Promise application and Start Survey through the student portal beginning in senior year
• Submit a Scholarship Acceptance Form after choosing an institution and receiving a college ID
• Normally enroll for at least 12 credits each semester unless an official exception applies
• Earn at least a 2.0 GPA each semester and maintain at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA
• Complete with passing grades the credits paid by the scholarship under Promise satisfactory-progress rules