Students are expected to actively participate in enrichment activities, including financial aid seminars, and career readiness workshops. Regular attendance and engagement are crucial for the successful completion of the program.

Yes, the program encourages family involvement. Parents and guardians are invited to attend financial aid seminars and other workshops to better understand how to support their student's educational journey.

Participants receive an official acceptance letter to GVSU, which will be honored when the student meets all GVSU admission requirements. This early acceptance provides students with a clear pathway to higher education.

The program offers virtual office hours where students and families can connect with Admissions and Recruitment staff to ask questions and gain valuable insights. These sessions cover topics such as the admissions process, student resources, academic programs, and campus life.

No— your journey with us doesn’t end at high school graduation! 

If you enroll at Grand Valley State University, your next step is New Student Orientation. This is where you’ll get connected to academic advisors, student support services, and GVSU’s community of scholars — including Pathways staff who will continue to support you through your college journey. Orientation is your bridge from high school into college life, and it’s where the next phase of your Pathways experience begins.

Pathways to GVSU is not a scholarship program — it’s a college access and success program.

While students in the program do not automatically receive a scholarship, they gain access to a wide range of supports and resources that can make college more affordable and accessible. This includes:

• The Wade H. McCree, Jr. Incentive Program – available to students who complete the Pathways to GVSU program and meet specific admission and academic criteria. This scholarship helps support students who were involved in early college access efforts during high school.
• The GV Pledge – a commitment from Grand Valley to cover the full cost of tuition for qualifying Michigan students whose families earn $50,000 or less and have assets under $50,000. Many Pathways students may be eligible for this financial support upon admission to GVSU.
• Access to additional GVSU scholarships for first-generation students, student leaders, and those demonstrating financial need.
• Year-round support with applying for the FAFSA , budgeting for college, and searching for outside scholarships.

Students accepted into the Pathways to GVSU program will typically receive their official acceptance letter within 2–3 weeks of completing their undergraduate application to GVSU. This will occur during their senior year in high school.

The deadline to submit your Pathways to GVSU Nomination Form depends on your current grade level:

• 12th Grade Students (Seniors):
  • The deadline is September 15 of your senior year.
  • This ensures there is enough time to engage in the program and receive college transition support.
• Students in Grades 9–11:
  • There is no strict deadline, but early submission is encouraged!
  • Applying early allows you to participate in more events, workshops, and mentoring opportunities throughout the academic year.

Submitting your Pathways to GVSU Nomination Form is the first step toward joining a supportive community committed to your college success.
If you have questions or are unsure about your eligibility, reach out to us at [email protected]  | or (616) 331-8820 — we’re happy to help!

The Pathways to GVSU program takes place during the academic year, running from August through April.

Throughout this period, students participate in a variety of activities including:

• Admissions & Recruitment check-ins
• College and career readiness workshops
• Financial aid sessions

Students and families will receive a calendar of key dates and opportunities at the start of the program year.