CMU gets an “A” for scholarship transparency

Central Michigan University was among approximately 100 national colleges and universities to receive an “A” grade for scholarship transparency from college planning organization College Aid Pro. 

“These rankings reflect CMU’s commitment to making financial aid easier for students and their families to understand as they plan for their degree journey,” said Jennifer DeHaemers, vice president for student recruitment and retention. 

According to College Aid Pro’s website, the CAP Report Card – Merit Scholarship Transparency Rankings examined 643 colleges and universities nationwide, selecting institutions based on factors including quality of education, popularity and reputation. 

The report ranked the selected institutions based on how transparently they communicate with students about merit-based aid, which includes all scholarships not granted based on financial need. The grading rubric considered how readily and clearly information is shared; how easily students can find specific scholarship dollar amounts and eligibility requirements; and how consistently the university makes the awards in alignment with stated criteria.

CMU’s website includes a page about its Maroon and Gold merit scholarships that clearly outlines how awards are granted and in what amounts, DeHaemers said. The site also includes guidance for completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, information about need-based aid, links to other available scholarships and more. 

CMU was among only 17% of ranked institutions to receive an “A” grade. According to College Aid Pro’s website, “The Merit Scholarship Transparency Report Card gives credit to the schools that do not ‘hide the ball’ and are straightforward with their potential applicants, allowing them to make well-informed decisions.”

DeHaemers said CMU strives to provide students and their families with clear, easy-to-understand information throughout the application and enrollment process. 

“A student’s decision to enroll at a college or university is a decision to invest in their future,” DeHaemers said. “We want to ensure students and their families are equipped with the information they need to make the best possible choice — and we hope they will choose CMU.”