Federal & State Grant Programs

Federal and state grants are need-based. A student's eligibility for any of the funds listed below is determined using the information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Federal Grant Programs

Federal Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) are awarded to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens who demonstrate exceptional financial need. For the 2012-2013 academic year, Federal Pell Grant awards ranged from $575 to $5,550.

FSEOG funding is limited and students are encouraged to complete their FAFSA by our priority date of April 1 each year in order to be considered for these funds. FSEOG funding can range from $250 to $4,000 annually. Preference for FSEOG funding is given to students who are Pell Grant recipients with an EFC of $0.

The Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant program provides awards to the children of a parent or guardian who served in the U.S. armed forces and died as a result of military service performed in Iraq or Afghanistan after the events of September 11, 2001.  To qualify, the student must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid and have been younger than 23 or enrolled in college at least part-time at the time of the parent’s or guardian’s death.

State Grants Programs

Minnesota State Grants (MSG) are available to students who are residents of the state of Minnesota or have graduated from a Minnesota high school.

Currently, eligible students may receive MSG funding for a maximum of eight semesters.

Availability of funding is considered limited, and students are encouraged to complete their FAFSA in a timely manner to be considered for MSG funding. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for specific deadlines that may apply to this program.

For the 2012-2013 academic year, Minnesota State Grant awards ranged from $100 to $9,620.

**Note: Be advised that MSG funding levels are subject to change based on appropriations approved in the higher education bill by the state legislature and the governor.

Child Care Grants

The Minnesota child Care Grant (CCG) is available to assist student with financial need who require child care for their dependent children. Read more about this limited grant opportunity and download an application.

Other State Programs

Students from states other than Minnesota are encouraged to research any home state grant programs that can be used in another state.   While many states limit the use of state funds to colleges or universities located in that state, some states provide “portable” funds that can be used in Minnesota.