Eastern Michigan University invests in student success with $53.3 million financial aid package for 2021-22 academic year

Package includes 10 year old scholarship program that effectively provides free tuition for many students

Students wearing face coverings study at the tables on the first floor of the Student Center.

YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan University has continued its commitment to helping its students succeed, with plans to award approximately $53.3 million in financial aid during the 2021-22 academic year. The Eastern Michigan University Board of Regents approved the financial aid package of scholarships, awards and grants at its regular meeting Oct. 22.

The total represents an increase of $1.2 million, or 2.3 percent, over last year’s scholarships request of $52.1 million.

Over the last dozen years, Eastern Michigan has more than doubled its student financial aid, reflecting its central mission of supporting EMU students in their academic success, in earning their degrees and continuing on to excellent careers.

Celebrating 10 years of providing free tuition to many students

An important financial aid program offered by the University is the Education First Opportunity Scholarship (EFOS), which was established 10 years ago. It remains a significant element of the University’s financial aid packages. EFOS-eligible students effectively receive free tuition through a combination of their federal Pell Grants and the University’s EFOS funds, which are factored together to fully offset tuition costs. Eastern was an early leader in offering programs such as EFOS to academically talented, low income students. Currently, more than 1,000 Eastern Michigan University students are receiving EFOS funds and paying no tuition.

Other aid programs

The University offers a wide variety of financial aid programs to assist students with levels of support based on their interests, personal circumstances and academic qualifications. Other key programs include:

Presidential Scholarship: Annually provides 18 qualifying students with a four-year award to pay 100 percent of tuition and fees and room and board for up to four years.

4WARD Graduation Scholarship: Provides students with the final two years of their tuition for free when they pay the first two years. 

Eastern Michigan’s scholarship webpage provides additional details on these programs and the entire range of the University’s financial aid support, as well as application information.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves nearly 18,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and, its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.

October 22, 2020

Written by:
Geoff Larcom

Media Contact:
Geoff Larcom
glarcom@emich.edu
734-487-4400