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Paying For College

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Paying for college can be difficult, but there are people and resources to help you.

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Although college prices continue to rise, they may not be as high as you might think. Few students or families are expected to pay, out of pocket, the full two- or four-year price of attendance. Don't let the apparent cost turn you away.

Financial aid is intended to fill the gap between the actual price of the school and what students and their families can realistically contribute from savings and income to pay for this education. This is called financial need. It allows students to attend schools that they otherwise might not be able to afford. The student, the student's family, and taxpayers (through financial aid) share responsibility for paying for higher education.

Financial aid is available to most students in three forms:

  • Grants and scholarships
  • Loans
  • Work study and community or military service

Most students receive a combination of these in what's called a financial aid package that is put together by the school the student plans to attend or is attending.

Download or request a free copy of Financial Aid Basics

Apply for Financial Aid
FAFSA
To receive financial aid, you must apply for it. Learn about the FAFSA, how to apply and tips for applying
MN Dream Act
Are you an undocumented student? You can apply for state financial aid by accessing the online Minnesota Dream Act
Student Loans
Although the least desirable form of financial aid, student loan programs allow you to borrow money at interest rates that are lower than loans not intended for education.
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Grants & Scholarships

The best types of financial aid are those you don't have to pay back after you graduate. It comes in two forms: grants & scholarships.
Minnesota State Grant
Information about the state grant available to all students in Minnesota
North Star Promise Scholarship
Free college tuition to help more students afford education after high school
Fostering Independence
This state grant is available to students who were in the foster care system
Search all Grants & Scholarships
View a list of all grants & scholarships offered to students in Minnesota
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Student Loans

Student loan programs allow you to borrow money at interest rates that are lower than loans not intended for education.
SELF Loan
A low-interest student loan administered by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education
SELF REFI
Helps qualifying borrowers both lower their monthly payments and their overall debt
Loan Repayment
Information about loan repayment including risks and how to repay after you graduate
Other Ways to Pay
From work studies to community service, there are several additional ways for students to afford higher education in Minnesota
Work Study
On- or off-campus jobs offered to students through a college's financial aid office
Education Tax Benefits
Federal and state income tax filers may be eligible for tax credits, deductions and exclusions if you enroll in an eligible institution
Tuition Reciprocity
Lower tuition for Minnesota students to attend public colleges in neighboring states
MN 529 College Savings Plan
A college fund that’s flexible and simple to manage, and any earnings are tax-deferred!
Military Education Benefits
Aid that is awarded to current military personnel, veterans and, in some cases, their family members
Explore More Resources
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Student Resources
Resources for high school and current college students including information on earning credits, school alerts, and more.
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Outreach & Professional Resources
Resources for educators and staff members including information on grants, student outreach and more.
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Data & Reports
We serve as the state's clearinghouse for data, research and analysis on postsecondary enrollment, financial aid, finance and trends.