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The North Star Promise Scholarship

Beginning in fall 2024, the North Star Promise Scholarship program will create a tuition and fee-free pathway to higher education for eligible Minnesota residents at eligible institutions as a "last-dollar" program by covering the balance of tuition and fees remaining after other scholarships, grants, stipends and tuition waivers have been applied. Students must have a family Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) as reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Minnesota Dream Act Application below $80,000 to qualify. 

By making college accessible and affordable, the North Star Promise is intended to have a positive impact on multiple fronts:

  • Create a viable higher education path for Minnesota residents who may have previously thought education was not a possibility for them.
  • Help stabilize enrollment at Minnesota public institutions of higher education; and
  • Serve as an economic driver for Minnesota by educating qualified workers who are much needed to fill vacancies in the state's labor force.

Across the state, an estimated 15,000-20,000 students will be impacted in the first academic year. There is no age restriction on the program, and it is open to new and returning students who meet the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligible students must:

  • Be a Minnesota resident
  • Have a family Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) as reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Minnesota Dream Act Application below $80,000.
  • Attend a Minnesota public higher education institution or Tribal College
  • Not be in default on a state or federal student loan
  • Be enrolled taking at least one credit
  • Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards
  • Have not already earned a baccalaureate degree
  • Be enrolled in a program or course of study that applies to a degree, diploma, or certificate

For more detailed information, including a list of Frequently Asked Questions and an explanation of family Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), see the Minnesota Office of Higher Education North Star Promise Scholarship page.