Minnesota TRiO programs offer pre-college and post-secondary programs designed to help students with low incomes and first generation students enter and graduate from college. Go to the website at https://mntrio.squarespace.com/.
The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is used to apply for federal and state student grants, work-study aid and loans.
Questions asked on the FAFSA determine your status as an independent or dependent student and helps to calculate the financial aid level you may receive. Students who were in foster care or under state guardianship any time after age 13 are considered independent. Independent students' parent's income is not used to calculate their financial aid awards.
Students under state guardianship or Indian children under tribal guardianship at age 18 are eligible to receive tuition waivers if they are under age 21 and accepted into a Minnesota state college or university.
Contact the school you plan to attend to request a tuition waiver and the type of documentation required.
A waiver covers only the cost of your tuition and no other school-related or living expenses.
Colleges may continue to waive tuition up to and beyond age 21 for students meeting eligibility requirements.
If you have questions about waivers, or issues with your school offering a waiver, contact Minnesota's Education and Training Voucher program coordinator at Dhs.Etvcoordinator@state.mn.us or 651-431-4663.
The Child Welfare Scholars/Title IV-E Stipend program provides financial support and educational opportunities to students committed to a career in public or tribal child welfare. Students interested in a career in child welfare should and this program contact the schools directly for more information.
Minnesota Social Association (MSSA) awards four scholarships to students seeking degrees in human services related programs. Applications accepted April 1 - May 31.
