Minnesota is opening the door to higher education for thousands of students through the North Star Promise program, a statewide initiative that provides free tuition to eligible residents attending public colleges and universities.
The program allows qualifying Minnesota students to attend any Minnesota State college or university, University of Minnesota campus, or Tribal College without paying tuition or mandatory fees. Designed to reduce financial barriers and expand access to education, the North Star Promise helps students pursue two-year degrees, four-year degrees, trade programs, or certificates without the burden of large tuition costs.
To qualify, students must be Minnesota residents with a family adjusted gross income of less than $80,000, as reported through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Minnesota Dream Act Application. There is no separate application for the program—students simply complete one of those forms to be considered.
The scholarship operates as a “last-dollar” program, meaning it covers any remaining tuition and required fees after other grants, scholarships, and financial aid have been applied. While the program covers tuition, it does not include other expenses such as housing, food, transportation, books, or supplies.
State officials say the program aims to make college more accessible while also strengthening Minnesota’s workforce. By helping more residents obtain degrees or technical training, leaders hope to fill job openings in key industries and support long-term economic growth across the state.
The North Star Promise program began awarding scholarships for the 2024–2025 academic year, and early estimates suggest it could benefit between 15,000 and 20,000 students statewide.
Supporters say the initiative reflects Minnesota’s broader commitment to expanding educational opportunity and helping students graduate with little or no debt. For many families, the program could make the difference between delaying college and enrolling immediately after high school.
As Minnesota continues to invest in education and workforce development, programs like North Star Promise are expected to play a key role in attracting students, strengthening communities, and building a more skilled future workforce.