College offers free tuition through new state grant program

*Some limitations apply, including income, qualifying programs, and must be a MN resident.

February 23, 2016

Beginning in fall 2016, recent and qualifying high school graduates could attend Anoka-Ramsey Community College for free.

Via the new Two-Year Occupational Grant Pilot program, students who graduated from high school, passed the GED or completed 12- or 24-month Americorps program in the 2015-2016 academic year may qualify for a grant for up to 72 college credits for programs pre-determined to be high-demand.

More about the program

The program provides financial assistance to students enrolled in qualifying career and technical programs at Minnesota State Colleges & Universities (MnSCU) system two-year colleges so that students can complete the program within two years or less and find employment in a high-demand occupation.

The grant program was created by the 2015 Minnesota Legislature and will be implemented for the 2016- 2017 and 2017-2018 academic years as a pilot program.

To support students throughout their academic programs, this pilot program requires recipients to participate in free mentoring services.

The grant will be awarded on a first-come first-served basis. To apply, students need to complete a 2016-2017 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and declare an eligible major. Undocumented students may apply for this pilot program by completing an application for the MN Dream Act and declaring an eligible major.

For complete information about the MnSCU Two-Year Occupational Grant Pilot program, including criteria and qualifying programs, visit: www.ohe.state.mn.us/mPg.cfm?pageID=2163