Free College Tuition for Minnesota Residents
College is possible—and more affordable than ever.
The North Star Promise program covers the cost of tuition and fees, helping more Minnesota students and families take the next step after high school without the burden of tuition costs.
Eligible students can attend any Minnesota State college or university, University of Minnesota campus, or Tribal College—tuition-free.
See How North Star Promise Makes College Possible
Watch how Minnesota students are attending college tuition-free.
Do You Qualify?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are a Minnesota resident
- Have a family Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $80,000 or less
- Complete the FAFSA or Minnesota Dream Act Application
- Enroll in an eligible degree, diploma, or certificate program
That’s it—there’s no separate North Star Promise application.
How It Works
- Apply for Financial Aid
- U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens: complete the FAFSA
- Undocumented students: complete the Minnesota Dream Act Application
- List Your College Choices
Include the schools you’re considering attending. - Receive Your Financial Aid Offer
If you qualify, your college will automatically include North Star Promise funding in your financial aid package—covering tuition and required fees. - Stay on Track
Continue meeting your school’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards to keep receiving free tuition.
What Does “Free Tuition” Mean?
North Star Promise is a “last-dollar” program, which means:
- Other grants and scholarships are applied first
- North Star Promise then covers any remaining tuition and required fees
Eligibility Requirements
To receive and maintain North Star Promise funding, students must:
- Be a Minnesota resident
- Have a family AGI below $80,000
- Attend a Minnesota public college/university or Tribal College
- Not be in default on state or federal student loans
- Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards
- Not already hold a bachelor’s degree (including those earned outside the U.S.)
- Be enrolled in an eligible program leading to a credential
Frequently Asked Questions
North Star Promise can cover up to 100% of tuition and required fees per term, after other gift aid is applied.
- 2-year programs: up to 60 credits
- 4-year programs: up to 120 credits
There is no annual or lifetime dollar cap, but awards are determined term by term.
Your college will:
- Apply the North Star Promise to cover the remaining balance
- Calculate your tuition and required fees
- Subtract all gift aid (grants, scholarships, waivers, stipends)
You’ll receive your award through your college’s standard financial aid notification process.
“Last-dollar” programs apply after all other gift aid is awarded.
Gift aid includes:
- Scholarships
- Grants
- Stipends
- Tuition waivers
Not included:
- Work-study
- Loans
Yes—if you remain eligible.
- Credit limits still apply (60 or 120 credits max)
- Awards are recalculated each term
- You must meet SAP standards
Yes.
If your other financial aid already fully covers tuition and fees, you will not receive North Star Promise funds.
You may still be considered for North Star Promise Plus (if available).
No—there is no age restriction.
No. Both new and returning students may qualify.
Get Started
Complete your financial aid application—it’s the only step required.
- U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens: complete the FAFSA ↗️
- Undocumented students: complete the Minnesota Dream Act Application ↗️
Submit your application by the 30th day of your term.
There is no separate application for North Star Promise.
Need Help?
Northland’s Financial Aid team is here for you every step of the way.
For more information, visit the Minnesota Office of Higher Education’s North Star Promise page.