WMU, GRCC partner to guarantee admission for eligible transfer students
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—A GRCC Raider today, a WMU Bronco tomorrow. For Grand Rapids Community College students dreaming of earning a bachelor’s degree, that next step is about to become a lot more certain.
Through an expansion of the Bronco Bound Guarantee, students who earn an associate degree at GRCC will now be guaranteed admission to Western Michigan University, along with an annual scholarship ranging from $1,000 to $4,500 for eligible students.
Leaders from both institutions made the partnership official during a signing ceremony Friday, Oct. 16, at GRCC’s main campus in Grand Rapids.
The Bronco Bound Guarantee is designed to take some uncertainty out of transferring from community college to a four-year university.
“Having led a community college, I know the important role these institutions play in helping students discover their potential and pursue their goals,” said WMU President Russ Kavalhuna.
“Our partnership with Grand Rapids Community College builds on that foundation. We want students to arrive at Western knowing they belong here; find opportunities to put their learning into practice; and have the support to thrive, graduate and build meaningful careers.”
“Strong partnerships create strong pathways for students. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to making higher education more accessible, affordable and connected,” said GRCC’s president, Dr. Kathryn A. Rogalski.
“We are proud to partner with Western Michigan University, an institution that recognizes the quality of a GRCC education and the strong foundation our students bring to their next chapter. Together, we are creating more opportunities for students to achieve their educational goals and build a brighter future for themselves and our communities.”
In addition to guaranteed admission, qualifying GRCC students will have their WMU application fee waived and receive scholarship consideration automatically, with eligible students guaranteed an annual award of $1,000 to $4,500.
Students will also have access to dedicated transfer advising and recommended academic plans to help them make the most of their credits. Those who can complete an associate degree through an approved transfer guide or program agreement will have their defined credits applied toward the corresponding WMU degree requirements, avoiding the frustration of losing credits along the way.
In more ways than one, the partnership is designed to help students make a successful transition to University life, connect with the Bronco community, and take advantage of distinctive academic programs and Experience-Driven Learning opportunities to graduate ready to pursue a meaningful career.
And students won’t have to wait until their first day at WMU to begin feeling like Broncos.
Prior to admission, eligible students will enjoy early access to University resources and campus experiences, including free admission to WMU sporting events, excluding hockey.
The partnership also recognizes the importance of completing a GRCC credential. Through a no-cost reverse transfer process, students who continue their education at WMU can have eligible University credits transferred back to GRCC to help them earn an associate degree.
GRCC and WMU will continue working together beyond the signing ceremony: WMU will participate in at least one transfer-focused event each semester, and both institutions will review student enrollment and achievement data to strengthen the partnership.
For GRCC students, “Bronco Bound” means Raiders can begin their journey toward a bachelor’s degree with greater confidence, knowing their next opportunity is already within reach.
The agreement with GRCC builds on Bronco Bound Guarantee partnerships WMU has established with Kalamazoo Valley Community College and Kellogg Community College, expanding the University’s efforts to make a WMU degree more accessible to community college students across the region.
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