Grandparents U is an invitation-only Michigan State University alumni experience that brings grandparents and grandchildren ages 8–12 together for two days of learning, exploration and Spartan traditions. Through faculty-led classes, campus activities and time spent together on campus, participants create lasting memories while sharing the Michigan State experience across generations.
Grandparents U is offered to a limited number of eligible families each year. Invitations are extended to MSU alumni who are recognized at the Spartan Loyal, or higher, level of giving. Space is limited.
Additional details about Grandparents U, including dates, registration information and program offerings, will be available in spring 2027.
If you have any questions about the upcoming program, contact the Alumni Office at alum.events@msu.edu.
Grandparents U invites MSU alums to return to their alma mater and share their love of MSU with the next generation of Spartans — their grandchildren. This two-day, one-night on-campus program creates lasting memories while sparking young students’ interest in higher education. Families experience college life through campus tours, social activities, courses led by MSU faculty, and living and dining in the residence halls. Showcasing the best of MSU, this intergenerational experience allows grandparents to continue their Spartan story alongside their grandchildren as they learn with and from one another.
Grandparents:
Grandchildren:
We recognize there may be situations in which a grandparent is unable to attend. Please contact the MSU Alumni Office to discuss options at alum.events@msu.edu. Please note: a parent cannot be substituted for a grandparent.
Grandchildren, regardless of age, must be accompanied by a grandparent at all times, no exceptions.
No more than two grandchildren can be accompanied by one grandparent.
If two grandchildren attend with one grandparent, everyone must attend the same classes and stay together as a group.
If two grandchildren attend with two grandparents, each grandparent/grandchild pair can attend different classes or the same classes.
No more than two grandparents may accompany one grandchild.
Grandparents U is designed to be intergenerational. Parents cannot attend the program, but are welcome to enjoy MSU on their own.
We recognize there may be situations in which a grandparent is unable to attend. Please contact the MSU Alumni Office to discuss options at alum.events@msu.edu. Please note: a parent cannot be substituted for a grandparent.
If a grandparent is the spouse of Grandparents U is designed specifically for MSU alums or faculty/staff to share their MSU experiences and memories with their grandchildren.
Check out Spartan Youth Programs for other opportunities to share with your grandchildren.
Grandparents U is an active program with events that take place in a variety of locations across campus. Although bus transportation is available, walking is the primary means of getting around, and walking distances may be up to several miles per day in various weather conditions. See “Getting around campus” below.
We strive to treat all participants fairly and equally and keep everyone safe while enjoying the program. Please take into consideration your personal physical activity level and whether this program is a good fit for you. If you have questions about the activity level, please contact the MSU Alumni Office prior to registering at alum.events@msu.edu.
Registration is online only.
Grandparents U is an extremely popular program with limited capacity. Registrations are processed on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached. The MSU Alumni Office cannot “reserve” or “hold” a spot in advance of registration opening.
Please review in advance what’s needed for registration, so you’re prepared when registration opens.
Registration includes one overnight stay in a residence hall, four meals at campus dining locations, two classes taught by MSU faculty, evening activities, transportation between program activities on campus, and a welcome bag and t-shirt.
Registration for Grandparents U 2027 will be announced in the spring of 2027.
The following information is needed for both grandchildren and grandparents. Please have ready in advance of starting online registration. Spots fill quickly and are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Contact the MSU Alumni Office at alum.events@msu.edu.
Class selection is available during registration. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Some classes are limited in size due to the nature of the class, availability of equipment and/or other factors. There are no guaranteed spots.
If a desired class is full we recommend choosing a different class — maybe a subject that is new and unexplored. You just may open a whole new world and experience for your grandchild.
Another option is to take the time to explore campus and share your favorite spots with your grandchild.
Whatever you choose, and whatever you do, you are creating family memories!
The physical and emotional safety and well-being of all participants is the highest priority for MSU. Please view the Grandparents U Program Handbook for a complete overview of event rules, code of conduct, emergency procedures and more.
Yes. Grandparents U conduct and safety policies and procedures meet or exceed the MSU requirements regarding programs involving minors.
Yes, there are several forms that will need to be completed by a specified date. The forms will be available online and must be completed, signed and submitted online.
Forms will not be accepted by mail, email or fax.
Registrants who do not submit their forms by the specified date will be released from participating in Grandparents U.
Grandparent forms:
Grandchildren forms (must be completed and signed by the child’s parent/legal guardian):
Grandparents U attendees will stay in Case Hall for one night and will eat most of their meals in the Case Hall dining facility.
No. Grandparents U registration rate is all-inclusive.
No. MSU does not allow air conditioners. Participants can bring a fan and extension cord if needed. Please note: we are not able to store fans.
No. If you have medicine or other medical necessity that requires refrigeration, please note in the accommodation request section when you register.
MSU Culinary Services operates all dining halls and is experienced with accommodating food allergies or other dietary requests. If you have food allergies or intolerances, or are required to follow a specific diet, the dining staff can provide resources and information to help you make safe choices while still having a great dining experience. The MSU Culinary Services team identifies the eight major allergens: milk, eggs, soy, nuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish and wheat, plus alcohol, beef and pork on all menu items.
Please note any food allergies or dietary requests in the accommodation request section when you register.
Walking is the main way to get around campus. Please note: walking distances may be up to several miles per day in various weather conditions.
If you prefer, MSU buses operate daily on set schedules, routes and stops. Please note: buses do not offer door-to-door service.
Participants are not permitted to drive their own vehicles to classes and evening activities.
Yes. Remember to bring bike and helmets.
Also, MSU Bikes Services Center has adult and some youth bikes available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact MSU Bikes at bikes@msu.edu or (517) 432-3400.
Parking on campus is very limited. Attendees should plan to park their car for the duration of Grandparents U. Complimentary parking will be available in a designated campus lot and a shuttle will be available during move-in and check-out.. Parking details will be sent several weeks before arrival.
A limited number of accessible spaces are available near the residence halls. If you have a valid handicap parking permit, you will need a parking pass in order to park on campus. Please indicate your requested accommodation when registering for Grandparents U and we will contact you with additional information.
We strive to treat all participants fairly and equally and keep everyone safe while enjoying the program. Any accommodation must be requested in writing at the time of registration. Any requested accommodation will be kept confidential and shared only with relevant MSU Alumni Office staff to ensure the participant’s requests are met to the best of our ability.
A request for a full refund must be made to the MSU Alumni Office by email at alum.events@msu.edu by the published refund deadline and will incur a $50 administrative fee. Please note: No refunds can be issued after the deadline.
Yes, you may send a substitute. However, the substitute must also be either a grandparent or grandchild, depending on who they are replacing. To request a substitute, contact the MSU Alumni Office by email at alum.events@msu.edu. All substitutions must be approved and all necessary forms must be submitted no later than the deadline (TBA).