The Michigan Indian Tuition Waiver (MITW) is a state-funded program established by Public Act 174 of 1976. The program waives tuition costs for eligible Native American students attending public colleges and universities in Michigan. Applications are administered by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP).

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, students must:

  • Be admitted to a Michigan public college or university
  • Be one-quarter (¼) or more Native American blood quantum, as certified by their Tribal Enrollment Department
  • Be an enrolled citizen of a U.S. Federally Recognized Tribe
  • Be a Michigan resident for at least 12 consecutive months immediately before applying

Required Documentation

Applicants must submit:

  • Completed MITW application
  • Tribal certification
  • Photocopy of Tribal ID
  • Residency verification documentation (when required)

Application Process

  1. Complete the student portion of the MITW application
  2. Submit the application to your Tribal Enrollment Department for certification
  3. Ensure all certified documents are submitted to MiLEAP for verification
  4. Follow up to confirm receipt and approval.

Important Notes

  • Eligibility is not affected by full-time or part-time enrollment status
  • Academic performance does not determine eligibility
  • Students who have already been verified through MiLEAP may complete a shorter process when transferring between institutions

For complete eligibility details, application forms, and instructions, visit Michigan Indian Tuition Waiver Program.