From Raider to Bronco: GRCC, WMU to Guarantee Admission for Transfer Students

New Bronco Bound partnership offers a direct path to a bachelor's degree, guaranteed scholarships and more

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Oct. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- 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 a new partnership called the Bronco Bound Guarantee, students who earn an associate degree at GRCC will 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 will make the partnership official during a signing ceremony at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, at GRCC's Applied Technology Center, Secchia Piazza, on the college's main campus in Grand Rapids. Media are invited to attend.

"Strong partnerships create strong pathways for students. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to making higher education more accessible, affordable and connected," said GRCC 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."

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."

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 apply toward the corresponding WMU degree requirements, avoiding the frustration of losing credits along the way.

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 is about more than providing a route to admission. It is also about helping students make a successful transition into university life, connect with the Bronco community and take advantage of distinctive academic programs and experiential learning opportunities.

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, with WMU participating in at least one transfer-focused event each semester and both institutions reviewing student enrollment and achievement data to strengthen the partnership.

For GRCC students, Bronco Bound means the journey toward a bachelor's degree can begin with greater confidence, knowing their next opportunity is already within reach.

About Grand Rapids Community College
GRCC was established in 1914 — Michigan's first community college — and is focused on making college education accessible and affordable. Classes are scheduled weekdays, evenings and Saturdays in Grand Rapids, Holland and online. We offer traditional liberal arts and occupational career pathways, adult education courses and skilled training courses and apprenticeships.

About Western Michigan University
WMU students are individuals who are truly unique. At Western, we celebrate the passions that drive students and the possibilities that inspire them. For us, a degree is a pursuit of purpose where students are empowered to learn and where an experience-driven education leads to a meaningful career. Broncos prosper. Nine out of 10 graduates are employed quickly, working in their field in jobs they like. WMU students make their mark on the world—Grammy recipients, Super Bowl champions, doctors, teachers, pilots and countless others have flourished here. Western is the place where students become the best version of themselves. WMU is a public research university, offering a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs to more than 17,000 students. Learn more at https://wmich.edu/

Media Contacts:
Lyndsie Post
Executive Director of Marketing & Communications
(616) 234-4213
[email protected]

Paula M. Davis
Associate Vice President for Strategic Communications
(269) 387-8411
[email protected]

SOURCE Grand Rapids Community College