North Star Promise Scholarship Program Available to Students for First Time Starting in Fall, 2024

by Annika Freiburger

Hibbing, MN- Minnesota North College announces the launch of the State of Minnesota’s North Star Promise Scholarship Program, which provides a “last dollar in” scholarship for students with Adjusted Gross Income of less than $80,000 with the ultimate goal of expanding access to higher education and reducing the financial burden on students and their families.

The North Star Promise Scholarship program is designed to make quality higher education more affordable and accessible to a broader range of students. Starting Fall, 2024 eligible students with an adjusted gross less than $80,000 will be eligible for the scholarship, which is a “last dollar in” and will cover remaining tuition and fees after federal Pell Grant, and Minnesota State Grant are applied and any other scholarship or gift aid, allowing them to pursue their educational dreams without the overwhelming burden of student debt.

Student Eligibility?

  • 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

What is the application process?

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Minnesota Dream Act Application
  • There is no additional application beyond the FAFSA or Minnesota Dream Act Application. The eligible college or university you are attending will assess your eligibility on a term-by-term basis and award North Star Promise Scholarships to all eligible students.

Dr. Michael Raich, President of Minnesota North College, expressed excitement about the launch of the North Star Promise Scholarship program, saying, “Our mission has always been to make quality education accessible to all. The North Star Promise Scholarship program is a significant step in that direction. It will empower students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their dreams, without the burden of financial hardship. We believe that this initiative will help shape the future of our community and open doors to countless opportunities.”

The North Star Promise Scholarship program represents a commitment to addressing the rising costs of higher education and promoting accessibility for all, in line with Minnesota North College’s longstanding dedication to its students and the community.

For more information about the North Star Promise Scholarship program please visit https://www.ohe.state.mn.us/mpg.cfm?pageid=2590.

About Minnesota North College
Minnesota North College prepares lifelong learners and engaged citizens through inclusive, transformative experiences reflecting the character and natural environment of the region. Through our six campuses, we strive to be the premier provider of life-changing education and the catalyst for regional prosperity.