Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for Federal and State Grants. A Grant does not need to be repaid unless you withdraw from school. Students who have already received a bachelor’s degree are not eligible for most grants.
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is based on the student’s Student Aid Index (SAI) as determined by the FAFSA. Federal Pell Grants awards are prorated based on student enrollment level. The Pell Grant award amount caps at 12 credits. Eligibility is limited to the equivalent of six full-time years of receiving Pell Grant funds.
Minnesota Dream Act
Students who are not eligible for the FAFSA due to citizenship status can apply for state financial aid by completing the Minnesota Dream Act.
Minnesota State Grant
The Minnesota State Grant is available students who meet Minnesota residency requirements. Eligibility is limited to the equivalent of four full-time years of receiving MN State Grant funds.
Students who complete the FAFSA by the 30th day of the term they wish to receive funding are automatically considered for State Grant eligibility. The MN State Grant is prorated based on student’s enrollment level. The MN State Grant award caps 15 credits.
Minnesota North Star Promise Scholarship Program
The North Star Promise program is considered a last-dollar program for tuition and fees only. The North Star Promise award does not cover books and supplies. It is available for eligible Minnesota residents who complete the FAFSA and whose family adjusted gross income is less than 80,000.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (Federal)
The Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant is based on the student’s Student Aid Index (SAI) as determined by the FAFSA. The school receives limited funds for the FSEOG program, and you should complete your FAFSA early for consideration of this grant.
Child Care Grant
The Minnesota Child Care Grant program provides additional funding for students with childcare expenses while they attend classes. Students are awarded on a first-come first-served basis after returning recipients have been awarded.
Fostering Independence Grant
The Fostering Independence Grant is funding for Minnesota residents under age 27 who were in the Minnesota foster care system at any point after their thirteenth birthday. This grant may cover the cost of attendance at any eligible Minnesota public or participating private college and university.
American Indian Scholars Program
The American Indian Scholars Program is first-dollar tuition and fee-free pathway for eligible members or citizens of any federally recognized tribe or Canadian First Nation. For consideration of this award, please complete the American Indian Scholars Program Application.
Minnesota Indian Scholarship
The Minnesota Indian Scholarship program is a need-based award for student with one-fourth or more American Indian ancestry or an enrolled member or citizen of a federally recognized American Indian tribe or Canadian First Nation.
Alliss Grant
The Alliss Grant is awarded to students with financial need and meeting certain criteria. Students who have already received a bachelor’s degree are not eligible.
Minnesota GI Bill
The Minnesota GI Bill program provides assistance to eligible Minnesota Veterans, currently serving in the military, National Guard and Reserve members who served after September 11, 2001, and eligible spouses and children.
Military Service Education Benefits
Each branch of the U.S. military has education programs to help members pay for college. To participate in these, programs you must meet certain eligibility criteria.
