In late June, the Northwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees approved tuition and fee rate increases for students as part of a balanced $60.4 million operating budget.
The Northwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees recently approved a balanced $60.4 million operating budget as well as tuition and fee rates for the upcoming 2026-27 academic year in a unanimous vote.
Students who reside in the district (Grand Traverse County) will see an increase of 3.8% from $131 per contact hour to $136. The College’s General fee, which is used to help offset the costs of providing facilities, technology, and student services, will increase $1.50 per contract hour to $36.75 from $35.25.
An average student residing in-district taking 30 contact hours as part of a standard two-semester academic year should expect to see a total increase of $195, up from last year totalling $45 in fees, and $150 in tuition.
Out of district students will see their total tuition rate per contact hour increase from $280 to $291. Out of state students will see their total tuition rate per contact hour increase from $364 to $378. International students will see their total tuition rate per contact hour increase from $410 to $426.
The tuition rate for high school students who are dual enrolling at Northwestern Michigan College has remained unchanged at $160 per contact hour for out of district students. The dual enrollment tuition is paid by the local school districts, not the families of the students. Dual enrolled students residing in-district are assessed at the lower rate of $136 per contact hour, this is also paid by the local schools.
Northwestern Michigan College’s tuition costs about one third as much as in state tuition at a public four year university. NMC offers an estimated tuition calculator that can be found on its website.
In an article posted on NMC’s website, the school’s president Nick Nissley was quoted about the budget, saying, "As NMC celebrates 75 years of serving our community, we remain committed to providing an affordable, high-quality education while planning responsibly for the future.This budget reflects a disciplined approach that keeps tuition increases modest, supports student success and positions the college to serve learners and employers for generations to come."
The help of community donors has allowed NMC to provide more than $2 million in institutional scholarships to students. Adults older than 25 who have not yet attained a degree are also eligible for a state scholarship called Michigan Reconnect, which pays the entirety of in-district tuition. The Community College Guarantee is available to recent high school graduates and provides free fees and tuition to in-district students irrespective of income.
Tuition accounts for 49% of Northwestern Michigan College’s operating budget. The other two primary revenue sources are state aid at 19% and property taxes at 27%.
More information about tuition rates for all programs and residencies can be found here.
More information about Northwestern Michigan College can be found at the school’s website.