Minnesota Scholarships for 2024

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Written by Dave Moniz

✔️ Edited by Unigo Staff

List of Minnesota Scholarships for 2024

The Lacek Group BIPOC Scholarship

$10,000 Award Amount

2 Awards

Apr 15 Deadline

The Lacek Group LLC, a globally recognized leader in loyalty, customer engagement and data-driven communications in Minneapolis, is thrilled to offer two $5,000 scholarships to two BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) students, one each for a high school senior and a college student. The area of study needs to be in or related to marketing, communications, business, finance, creative arts, analytics, or computer science. Applicants must be residents of Minnesota but may attend college in Minnesota or Wisconsin. “We believe diversity drives smarter work for our clients — and better business for us,” says Bill Baker, CEO. “As noted on our website, 'unique perspectives don't just make life more interesting; they drive innovation, fuel creativity, and make our business and communities better.'” This scholarship program grew out of our agency's commitment to change regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion. In particular, the program reflects our focus on community involvement, financial support and hiring practices. “We hope that some of the scholarship recipients will eventually be hired by The Lacek Group,” says Baker.

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Grow the Dream Foundation Scholarship Application

$10,000 Award Amount

2 Awards

Jan 15 Deadline

The Grow the Dream foundation exists to bridge the financial gap for families in need and promote the positive impact of college athletics. The foundation and its sponsor company, Prep Network, share the mission of creating lifelong memories for athletes through a combination of premiere competition and media exposure, seeking to make college athletics a reality for more aspiring high schoolers across the country.

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Fergus Area College Foundation Scholarship

$1,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Jul 15 Deadline

Scholarships are monetary gifts, which means you don’t need to repay them or earn the funds by working. Scholarships are considered part of your financial aid package, and they may replace some or all of your financial aid eligibility, reducing your possible debt. They are a form of financial assistance awarded to students based on specific criteria that have been determined by the donor or organization providing the funds and the FACF board of directors.

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Korean American Scholarship Foundation-Midwestern Regional Chapter

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Jun 30 Deadline

KASF scholarships (which range from $500 to $5,000) are offered to the qualified Korean American students (including foreign students from Korea). All applicants must be enrolled in a full time program in the U.S during the scholarship application year. If extra funds are available, other students (non Koreans) may qualify for scholarships. Specifically, descendants of American veterans served during the Korean War may qualify for scholarships (applicable to selective regions). To apply for KASF scholarships, it is very important to follow the specific requirements and instructions of the region where the applicant’s school is/will be located during the scholarship application year as the type and amount of available scholarships may differ from region to region.

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Avisen Legal’s Business Law Scholarship

$1,000 Award Amount

2 Awards

Jun 30 Deadline

Avisen Legal is proud to offer two $1,000 scholarships for two (2) law students focusing on business law. As a boutique firm established and staffed exclusively by lawyers with an entrepreneurial background, the Avisen team has long been avid supporters of those who are inspired to build something themselves, whether that’s a new business or a legal career. As the price of law school continues to rise dramatically, Avisen Legal wants to help support the next generation of lawyers to ensure a quality legal education is affordable.

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ASCLS- MN Scholarship

$500 Award Amount

1 Award

Jun 15 Deadline

The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science – Minnesota (ASCLS- MN) announces the availability of scholarships for students enrolled in Minnesota based Medical Laboratory Science or Medical Laboratory Technician programs. The minimum amount for a scholarship is $500.

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Clean Air Choice® Biodiesel Essay Scholarship

$750 Award Amount

2 Awards

Mar 29 Deadline

This essay contest is open to Minnesota high school seniors who wish to continue their education after high school. Students must write a 1,000-word essay on a biodiesel topic to apply.

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Catch a Break! Scholarship

$11,000 Award Amount

15 Awards

Mar 15 Deadline

Catch A Break! Scholarship program will be celebrating its 10th year in 2024. CAB! has awarded $1.6 million in scholarships to date. CAB! awards $11,000 per year/renewable for 4 years 15 scholarships available each year CAB! is also more than just financial support: scholarship recipients receive community support throughout their college years. Each CAB! scholar receives an individual mentor, and there are 3 community events per year to foster social support and networking. Earning a scholarship through CAB! comes with an built-in community.

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Going to College In Minnesota

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 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 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.

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 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

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 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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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.