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​Alternative Education Programs in Michigan – Flexible Online Learning for High School Students

Smiling graduate in cap and gown hugging his proud mother after high school ceremony

Earn Your Diploma Online — Tuition-Free, On Your Terms

Life doesn’t always follow a straight line. At Next Step Online by Uplift Michigan Online School, we help you keep moving forward.


This flexible, tuition-free, nationally accredited online alternative high school program is designed for Michigan students who need a unique route to graduation.


Whether you're behind on credits, working, caregiving, or just need a fresh start, Next Step Online provides the support and structure to help you succeed.

START YOUR APPLICATION

GET MORE INFORMATION

Curious if Next Step Online by Uplift is the right alternative high school program for you or someone you care about?


Fill out this quick form and we’ll send you a detailed brochure that explains everything you need to know — from how the program works to what makes it different.

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Who Next Step Online is For

Next Step Online is here for Michigan students who:

Need Credit Recovery

Catch up on missing credits and graduate with a real Michigan high school diploma.

WORK OR HAVE FAMILY OBLIGATIONS

Learn on a schedule that works around your job, caregiving, or other responsibilities.

DROPPED OUT OR WERE DISENGAGED

It's never too late. This is your second chance.

NEED A SAFE, JUDGEMENT-FREE SPACE

If anxiety, bullying, or past trauma made traditional school hard, we offer a welcoming environment.

ARE PARENTING OR CAREGIVING

We support you with flexible scheduling and a team that understands your needs.

FACE INSTABILITY OR HOUSING CHALLENGES

Stay enrolled no matter where you are in Michigan with our mobile-friendly program.

I WANT TO LEARN MORE

Why Next Step Online

Your diploma is more than a piece of paper- it’s a doorway to opportunity. High school graduates earn an average of $8,000 more per year than GED holders and enjoy greater access to jobs, college, and military service.


Here's what sets us apart:

Flexible Online High School Classes

Study mornings, evenings, weekends. We work around your job, family, or life challenges.

We Bring the Education to You

Whether you're in Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, or a rural county in Northern Michigan, we serve students statewide with our online curriculum.

Free Laptop and WiFi Hotspot Available

Don’t let tech stop you. We’ll get you what you need to stay connected and succeed.

Real Teachers, Real Support

You’re not alone. Our dedicated teachers and mentors check in often, offering 1-on-1 support and guidance.

Credit Recovery & Graduation Pathways

Catch up and move forward. We help students recover high school credits online and stay on track to graduate with a real Michigan diploma, not just a GED.

A Caring, Non-Judgmental Community

We understand life happens. Our team is here to support, not judge.

Success is Possible — Just Ask Our Students

We’ve helped Michigan students just like you turn their challenges into achievements.

"I liked that everyone cares about my success and I'm not just another number."


-Graduate

“I worked full time while going to school. My schedule was flexible enough to manage both and everyone was understanding.”


-Graduate

“Thanks to this school my daughter was able to work, grow and engage in an environment that also nourished her soul.”

 -Parent

HEAR MORE STORIES

Where Our Graduates Go

Community college or university

Skilled trades or apprenticeships

Military service

Workforce-ready careers

With a real diploma in hand, you can build the future you want.

How to Get Started

Request Info

Fill out the form to get a detailed program brochure.

Talk to an Enrollment Specialist

We'll guide you through next steps.

Start Your Journey

Get connected with a laptop and start earning credits.

SEND ME A BROCHURE
I'M READY TO APPLY

Frequently Asked Questions

ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Is Next Step Online free?

Yes! Next Step Online by Uplift is a public, tuition-free, nationally accredited, 100% online alternative education program for Michigan students.

What are the eligibility requirements to enroll?

Students must be under 22 years old by September 1, or under 26 with an active IEP, and reside in Michigan.

What steps do I need to take to ensure I am fully enrolled?

Just create an account in Skyward, upload your documents, and submit your application. Our dedicated team will follow up to help you finish the process.

Do you provide a laptop or help with internet access?

Yes! We’ll make sure you have a school laptop and Wi-Fi hotspot if you need them to stay connected and succeed.

Can I start at any time?

We’re currently enrolling for the 2025–2026 school year starting in August — apply today!

How do I contact the enrollment team with more questions?

Text or call us at 906-256-6901 or email upliftenrollment@uplift-mi.org — we’re happy to help!

PROGRAM DETAILS

Can it work within my current schedule?

We understand life exists outside of school. Our flexible structure allows you to learn on your terms, with the support of real teachers.

Will I earn a real diploma?

Absolutely. Graduates receive a fully accredited Michigan high school diploma, not a GED. Interested in learning more about the difference between a high school diploma, GED, or dropping out? Check out this infographic here.

Is this program accredited?

Yes! Next Step Online is an alternative education program powered by Uplift Michigan Online School. Uplift is proud to have earned Cognia accreditation, demonstrating our dedication to student achievement and continuous growth. Your diploma will be real and recognized.

What if I need support?

You won’t go it alone. Our Michigan-based teachers, coaches, and counselors will check in regularly and provide the resources you need to succeed.

A New Start Begins Today

No matter what challenges brought you here, Next Step Online is your chance to move forward. The future you want is within reach — and we’re ready to help you achieve it!

take the next step today and apply