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✔️ Edited by Unigo Staff

While it’s probably pretty easy to find what you’re looking for in the Mall of America, not everyone knows where to start a search for free college dollars. If you are a Minnesota resident or student, you won’t have to visit your famous mall to find these awards. We’ve compiled this directory of grants and scholarships for Minnesota residents to help make your search a little easier.

List of Minnesota Scholarships for 2024

Bob and Jan Jones Endowment Scholarship

$750 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This scholarship is open to U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of one of the eligible Midwestern states. Students must major in education and have a grade point average of 2.5-3.5.

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Traveler's Foundation Scholarship - Tribal College Students

$4,000 Award Amount

1 Award

May 31 Deadline

This scholarship is open to U.S. college sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are of American Indian or Alaskan Native descent, attend selected tribal institutions, and are residents of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Florida, Minnesota, or Texas. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher and demonstrated financial need, and must major in business, accounting, computer science, computer technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or a related field.

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Minnesota State Memorial Endowment Scholarship

$2,200 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This award is available for U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of Minnesota. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

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ASHRAE Minnesota Chapter Peter Potvin Scholarship

$3,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Dec 1 Deadline

This scholarship is available to U.S. and international undergraduate students who have graduated from high school or are attending a school within the geographic boundaries of ASHRAE's Minnesota Region. Students must major in engineering or architecture and plan to pursue a career in the heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) profession.

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Academic Scholarships

$1,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Apr 30 Deadline

The Association of Women Contractors Scholarship is available for female students and apprentices who are pursuing careers in the construction industry. Through these scholarships, the aim is to help recipients to afford their education, connect with members and develop a strong support system.

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Apprentice Scholarships

$10,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Apr 30 Deadline

The Apprentice Scholarship is available for Females currently working at the apprentice level or graduating their trade or training program to start work as an apprentice. You must also be a current Minnesota resident or working for a Minnesota construction company. Click here to learn more and apply today!

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Matt and JoAnn Butler Youth Development Scholarship

$2,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Apr 30 Deadline

Girl Scouts unleashes the G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)™. They offer leadership development and life skills training for girls. Their mission is to build girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place. This award comes from Matt and JoAnn Butler.

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AGCO BNSF Railway Foundation FFA $1,000 Scholarship

$10,000 Award Amount

10 Awards

Feb 28 Deadline

BNSF Railway is focused on making a difference in the communities where our employees live, work and volunteer. This Foundation is giving one scholarship to award to members from the following states: California, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Texas. A minimum 3.0 GPA is required.

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MSAA Scholarship Program

$1,000 Award Amount

2 Awards

Jan 15 Deadline

The Minnesota State Archery Association offers two scholarships each of $500 to graduating high school students who are academically successful and who can also demonstrate a sincere interest in the sport of archery. Click to learn more and apply today!

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St. Cloud Technical & Community College Scholarship Program

$7,500 Award Amount

3 Awards

Jun 30 Deadline

Scholarships range from $500 to $2500. Applications are open until June 27th. Applicants must be attending St. Cloud Technical & Community College in Minnesota.

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Sandy Weisenberger Endowment Scholarship

$500 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This award is available for U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of Minnesota. The student must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

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MARC Endowment Scholarship

$1,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This award is available for U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of an eligible Midwestern state. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

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Simon Youth Foundation Community Scholarship Program

$10,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 17 Deadline

This scholarship is available for U.S. high school seniors who reside within 50 miles of a Simon® property. Students must plan to enroll full time in an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational/technical school in the upcoming fall semester, and must demonstrate academic promise and financial need.

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Minnesota State Grant

$1,857 Award Amount

103,000 Awards

Feb 17 Deadline

This award is available to Minnesota undergraduate students who are enrolled at an eligible postsecondary institution in Minnesota. Students must demonstrate financial need as determined by completing the FAFSA. Click here to learn more and apply today!

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Minnesota Public Safety Officer's Survivor Program

$11,504 Award Amount

6 Awards

Feb 17 Deadline

This award is available to Minnesota resident undergraduate and graduate students who are attending or planning to attend a Minnesota public or private postsecondary institution. The student must be the spouse or dependent of a public safety officer killed in the line of duty.

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Minnesota Child Care Grant

$2,074 Award Amount

2,700 Awards

Feb 17 Deadline

This award is for Minnesota resident students who have a child 12 years old or younger and are attending or planning to attend a Minnesota public or private postsecondary institution. The student must demonstrate financial need and cannot have completed four years of postsecondary education.

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MDVA Surviving Spouse/Dependent Education Benefit

$4,750 Award Amount

75 Awards

Jun 30 Deadline

This scholarship is available for Minnesota undergraduate students who are the children of a veteran who died on active duty or as a result of a service-connected condition. Students must attend a Minnesota college or university.

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Minnesota/South Dakota Reciprocity Agreement

$3,306 Award Amount

3,180 Awards

Jun 30 Deadline

This program is open to Minnesota undergraduate and graduate students who are planning to attend a public college or university in South Dakota. The program allows students to pay a reduced tuition rate.

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Minnesota/North Dakota Reciprocity Agreement

$5,430 Award Amount

11,234 Awards

Jun 30 Deadline

This program is open to Minnesota undergraduate and graduate students who are planning to attend a public college or university in North Dakota. The program allows students to pay a reduced tuition cost.

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Minnesota/Wisconsin Reciprocity Agreement

$7,000 Award Amount

14,186 Awards

Jun 30 Deadline

This program is open to Minnesota undergraduate and graduate students who are planning to attend a public college or university in Wisconsin. The student must be enrolled in an eligible program to qualify, and will pay a reduced tuition rate.

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Carol Bauhs Benson Scholarship

$1,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This scholarship is available for U.S. students who are residents of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, or Wisconsin. Students must have completed a minimum of one year of an accredited dental hygiene certificate/associate's program with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, and must be professional or student members of American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA).

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Joseph Hagan Memorial Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

2 Awards

Nov 1 Deadline

This scholarship is open to students who are or will be enrolled in an ABFSE-accredited mortuary science program.

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Minnesota Veteran Education Benefit Program

$750 Award Amount

75 Awards

Nov 1 Deadline

This scholarship is available to Minnesota military veterans to use at any Minnesota college or university. The award may be used for any level of postsecondary education.

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KASF Midwestern Region Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Jun 30 Deadline

This scholarship is offered to Korean-American undergraduate or graduate students who are currently enrolled in college and are residents of the midwestern region of the United States as defined by the Korean American Scholarship Fund. The following states are eligible: Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

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Parr Family Memorial Endowment Scholarship

$700 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 1 Deadline

This award is available for U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of an eligible Midwestern state. Applicant must have a grade point average of 2.5 to 3.0.

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Going to College In Minnesota

Historic Stone Arch Bridge leading to the Minneapolis skyline, glowing under a soft sunset.

There are nearly 200 colleges and universities in Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes. According to the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, over 425,000 students were enrolled in one of Minnesota’s colleges and universities as of 2024. Whether you are interested in attending the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (U of M), Carleton College, University of St. Thomas, St. Cloud State, Concordia University, or Minnesota State University, there are great opportunities to make your college journey more affordable!

How Much Do Minnesota Colleges Cost?

Before diving into scholarship opportunities, it’s important to understand the cost of attending college in Minnesota. For the 2024-25 academic year, tuition and fees for in-state students at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities are approximately $17,370 per year. Out-of-state students can expect to pay around $38,518 annually. At Minnesota State University, Mankato, in-state tuition and fees are $9,572 per year, while out-of-state students pay $18,942. If you do not live in Minnesota but a nearby state in the Midwest Compact or North Dakota, you may be eligible to pay lower out-of-state tuition and fees.

Tuition at private colleges and universities in Minnesota, such as Carleton College and St. Mary’s University of Minnesota can exceed $68,000 and $44,000 per year, respectively.

Types of Scholarships Available in Minnesota

Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit scholarships are awarded to students who excel academically or have exceptional talents. They often require a high grade point average, strong standardized test scores, and/or achievements in specific areas such as the arts, sports, or leadership.

Need-Based Grants and Scholarships

Need-based scholarships are awarded based on a student’s financial situation. For need-based grants and scholarships, eligibility is typically determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Need-based grants and scholarships aim to help students from middle and low-income families afford a college education.

Athletic Scholarships

Student athletes who excel in a sport may qualify for athletic scholarships offered by colleges and universities. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition and often require continued participation in the sport.

Talent-Based Scholarships

Talent-based scholarships are available to students with unique talents, such as music, art, or writing. They often require the submission of a portfolio, audition, or original work.

Merit-Based Scholarships in Minnesota

Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, reflecting in the pond.

Minnesota Academic Excellence Scholarship

The Minnesota Academic Excellence Scholarship is awarded to Minnesota students who have demonstrated outstanding ability, achievement, and potential in one of several subjects including language arts, fine arts, foreign language, math, science, or social science. The scholarship is available to recipients for up to four years of study at the University of Minnesota, Minnesota State University, or an eligible non-sectarian private college or university in Minnesota. Awards can cover up to full tuition and fees at one of Minnesota’s public universities or a comparable amount if you attend an eligible private school.

Minnesota Masonic Charities Scholarships

Minnesota Masonic Charities offers four scholarship programs to Minnesota residents pursuing higher education at any accredited four year college or university. For the Heritage or Undergraduate Scholarships, students must have an unweighted grade point average of at least 3.0, while the Legacy and Signature Scholarships require recipients to have unweighted GPAs of at least 3.6 and 3.9, respectively as well as certain minimum ACT composite scores. Awards range from $2,500 to $6,000 per year, depending on the student’s academic achievement.

President’s Emerging Scholars Program (PES)

This prestigious scholarship is available to historically underserved Minnesota students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership skills. Award amounts vary, and recipients are typically recognized at both the state and national levels.

Need-Based Scholarships and Grants in Minnesota

Federal Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based grant available to low-income students across the country. Minnesota students can use Pell Grant funds to attend any eligible college or university in the state or nation. For the 2024-25 academic year, the maximum Pell Grant award is $7,395. In order to be eligible for the Pell Grant, you must complete and submit the FAFSA.

Minnesota State Grant

The Minnesota State Grant is a need-based grant for Minnesota students who have not completed eight full-time semesters of higher education. The average grant award is currently $3,168 and is awarded in coordination with Federal Pell Grants. Actual awards can vary between $100 and over $12,000. Amounts are determined based on the type of college or university you are attending and your financial need. In order to be considered for the Minnesota State Grant, students must complete the FAFSA or Minnesota Dream Act Application.

Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program

The Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program is available to Minnesota residents who are members of a federally recognized American Indian tribe. Awards range from $4,000 to $6,000 per year, depending on the student’s level of need and academic performance. Grants under this program are available to both undergraduate and graduate students attending eligible colleges and universities in Minnesota.

Wallin Education Partners Scholarship

This scholarship provides up to $4,000 per year to high school seniors from the Twin Cities metro area who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to community service.

Scholarships for High School Students in Minnesota

North Star Promise

The Minnesota North Star Scholarship is a need-based scholarship available to high school seniors attending a public college or university in Minnesota including all Tribal colleges. The scholarship covers any remaining tuition and fees after all other state and federal aid have been applied. Recipients must have household adjusted gross incomes of $80,000 or less, as reported on their FAFSA or the Minnesota Dream Act Application.

Page Education Foundation Grant

This scholarship is awarded to Minnesota high school seniors of color who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to community service. Recipients can receive awards up to $3,500 per year, to attend an eligible college or university in Minnesota.

Scholarships for Adult Learners in Minnesota

Minnesota Postsecondary Child Care Grant

Minnesota parents with children 12 and under (14 and under if disabled) who are going to college and demonstrate financial need may be eligible to receive grants from the Minnesota Postsecondary Child Grant Program (MPCG) to help pay for child care. This grant can cover up to 40 hours per week per eligible child. The amount of the grant award is based on the income of the applicant and spouse, number in the applicant’s family, number of eligible children needing child care, the actual cost of child care, and whether the student is enrolled full or part time. Grants are available for both undergraduate and graduate students under this program.

Alliss Opportunity Grant Program for Adults Returning to College

Grants are available for students with financial need who are enrolled in a two-year college in Minnesota. These grants are specifically for those attending community colleges in Minnesota who are pursuing an Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.), Associate of Fine Arts (A.F.A.), diploma, certificate, or Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) course that is designed to transfer to a baccalaureate program. To be eligible for the Alliss Opportunity Grant, students must not have already earned a bachelor’s degree. Grant recipients do not need to be Minnesota residents.

Alliss Opportunity Grants are awarded by the school you attend through your college’s regular financial aid process and can be used to cover any remaining financial need after Pell Grants and/or other Minnesota State Grants have been applied. Additionally, recipients are required to meet with an advisor during the semester in which they receive the award to develop a plan for completing their baccalaureate degree. The selection process for the Alliss Opportunity Grant varies by schools, so students should contact their school’s financial aid office for additional information.

Scholarships for Graduate Students in Minnesota

Majestic Gooseberry Falls cascading over rugged rocks amid lush greenery on Lake Superior.

Diversity of Views and Experiences (DOVE) Fellowship

This fellowship is available to graduate students from underrepresented backgrounds pursuing a degree at the University of Minnesota. Recipients receive a $25,000 stipend to help cover tuition, health insurance, and other expenses for up to two years.

Robina Foundation Fellowships in Law, Public Policy, and Society

This fellowship is available to graduate students at the University of Minnesota Law School who are interested in careers in public service. Awards vary and can include tuition, fees, and a stipend.

Scholarships for Minnesota Dreamers

Minnesota Dream Act

The Minnesota Dream Act provides Minnesota residents who are undocumented students with access to in-state tuition at Minnesota’s public colleges and universities as well as access to certain state financial aid programs including the Minnesota State Grant and Minnesota Postsecondary Child Care Grant. Students must meet certain eligibility criteria, including having attended a Minnesota high school for at least three years as well as having graduated from a Minnesota high school. To be eligible, students must complete the Minnesota Dream Act Application.

Scholarships for Out-of-State Students

The University of Minnesota National Scholarships

This scholarship is available to high-achieving out-of-state students attending the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. This scholarship is intended to make out-of-state tuition more affordable. Recipients must be first-time, incoming freshman. Awards do vary depending on a student’s academic achievement. For consideration, students must complete their Application for Admission to the University of Minnesota by specified deadlines. No other special application is required.

Institutional Grants and Scholarships for Colleges and Universities in Minnesota

Grants and scholarships awarded by colleges and universities are available at most schools in Minnesota. Such institutional grants and scholarships are designed to supplement federal and state grants many students receive. Institutional awards do vary in size and they can be need-based, merit-based, or a combination thereof.

These types of grants and scholarships are designed to attract students by making the complete cost of education including tuition and fees, books, room and board, and other educational-related expenses more affordable for students.

Private Scholarships for Students in Minnesota

Minnesota offers generous scholarships and grants for its residents. For many students, these opportunities combined with federal financial aid programs and institutional aid can make a big difference in making college more affordable. At the same time, eligibility for federal, state, and institutional grants and scholarships is not guaranteed.

While many students do qualify for government-based financial aid programs and institutional grants, many students will still experience a gap between the aid they receive and the cost of attendance. This is where private scholarships can be a big source of support and why all students should consider applying for private scholarships.

Private scholarships do vary in criteria and eligibility, offering opportunities for students pursuing a college education at colleges and universities in Minnesota and across the United States. For this reason, you should plan to apply broadly for as many private scholarships as you may qualify. Websites like unigo.com provide comprehensive listings and application details for many private scholarships.

Tips for Securing Scholarships and Grants in Minnesota

Grand Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, crowned by a dome and surrounded by lush greenery.

Navigating the scholarship application process can be challenging, but following these tips can increase your chances of success:

Start Early: Begin researching and applying for scholarships well ahead of deadlines to avoid missing out on opportunities.

Stay Organized: Keep track of application deadlines, required documents, and criteria using a planner or spreadsheet.

Personalize Your Approach: Customize your essays and personal statements to each scholarship, emphasizing how your goals align with the scholarship’s mission.

Obtain Strong Recommendations: Seek letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or community leaders who can speak to your achievements and potential.

Showcase Your Achievements: Highlight your academic, extracurricular, and leadership accomplishments in your applications.

Complete the FAFSA: Many scholarships and grants require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is also necessary for federal aid and many institutional scholarships and grants.

By taking advantage of the numerous scholarship and grant opportunities available, you can significantly reduce the cost of your college education in Minnesota. Start exploring your options today to maximize your financial aid and make your academic dreams a reality.