Minnesota College Grants & Scholarships: A Parent’s Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by college costs and financial aid, that’s completely normal. You’re not alone. This guide breaks down Minnesota’s grants, scholarships, and programs into simple steps to help you and your student navigate the process with confidence.
📝 Step 1: Fill Out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
The FAFSA is the main application for most financial aid. It’s how schools and the state understand your family’s finances to decide what help your student can get. If you’re new to this, think of it as the first step toward unlocking money for college.
For the 2025–26 school year:
- FAFSA opens: December 1, 2024
- Federal deadline: June 30, 2026
- Minnesota State Grant deadlines (by school term):
- Fall 2025: September 23, 2025
- Spring 2026: February 10, 2026
- Summer 2026: June 24, 2026
- Note: Minnesota State Grant funding is not available for Summer 2025.
- FAFSA official site: https://studentaid.gov
The state sets deadlines by semester (Fall, Spring, Summer) so it can share out funds fairly throughout the year. You’ll want to apply by the deadline that matches when your student plans to start school. This helps make sure aid is there when they need it.
No—Minnesota uses your FAFSA to determine eligibility for state grants and scholarships. Just make sure you submit your FAFSA by the state deadlines, and the state will handle the rest.
🎓 Step 2: Learn About Minnesota’s Main Financial Aid Programs
| Program | Type | Eligibility & Award Info |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota State Grant | Need-Based Grant | For Minnesota residents attending eligible public or private schools. Awards range from about $1,400 at two-year colleges to $6,400 at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. You’ll need to file your FAFSA by the deadlines and stay enrolled at least half-time. |
| North Star Promise | Need-Based Scholarship | Covers full tuition and fees for Minnesota families earning under $80,000 a year at public or tribal colleges. |
| Postsecondary Child Care Grant | Need-Based Grant | Helps students with child care costs while they attend eligible programs. You’ll need to file FAFSA and be enrolled in an approved school. |
🏫 Minnesota’s Public Universities
- University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
- University of Minnesota – Crookston
- University of Minnesota – Duluth
- University of Minnesota – Morris
- University of Minnesota – Rochester
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Minnesota State University, Moorhead
- Winona State University
🆕 Other Minnesota Aid Programs to Know About
In addition to the main grants and scholarships, here are some other programs that might help your family:
- Tuition Reciprocity — Allows Minnesota residents to attend colleges in neighboring states at lower tuition rates.
- Direct Admissions Minnesota — Simplifies college applications for Minnesota high school seniors.
- Dual Training Grant — Supports students training in high-demand careers.
- Fostering Independence Grant Program — Helps students who were in foster care pay for college.
🎯 Step 3: Take It One Step at a Time
- ✔️ Fill out the FAFSA early — as soon as December 1, 2024.
- ✔️ Keep track of Minnesota State Grant deadlines that match your student’s start term.
- ✔️ Look for scholarships from schools, community groups, and other places.
- ✔️ Ask your student’s financial aid office any questions — they’re there to help.
Remember: You don’t have to figure this all out by yourself. Taking it one step at a time and asking for help makes all the difference.
🎁 Want a Shortcut to All This?
Grab our free College Ready Parent Starter Kit — it’s packed with:
- ✓ A checklist for every grade
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Still overwhelmed? You’re not alone. The fact that you’re reading this and filling out the FAFSA already puts your family ahead of the curve.