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MSU Moorhead creates tuition-free scholarship program for North and South Dakota residents 

MSU Moorhead creates tuition-free scholarship program for North and South Dakota residents 

Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) is creating a tuition-free scholarship program for students from North Dakota and South Dakota. This university-funded initiative builds upon the success of the State of Minnesota’s North Star Promise scholarship which will provide financial assistance to Minnesota residents with family Adjusted Gross Incomes of less than $80,000 beginning in Fall 2024. Expanding eligibility to these neighboring states aligns with MSUM’s mission to foster academic excellence and promote accessibility to higher education.

Beginning Fall 2024, the university-funded expansion of this program will make the scholarship available to new entering first-year and transfer students from North Dakota and South Dakota who meet the same eligibility requirements as the North Star Promise scholarship.

“We’re proud to unveil our tuition-free program for new students from North and South Dakota, guaranteeing four years of tuition-free education after other gift aid is applied,” said Jason Trainer, MSUM Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management. “This initiative not only ensures accessibility but also emphasizes our commitment to providing a high-quality education without the burden of debt. It’s a transformative step towards making education more accessible and empowering students to excel in their academic pursuits.”

“At Minnesota State University Moorhead, we’ve always prided ourselves on being a place where everyone is welcome, especially those who have traditionally been left out of higher education,” said MSUM President Tim Downs. “We are thrilled to continue this journey of transformation and innovation, advancing the lives and careers of the students we serve. This tuition-free program is just the first of many initiatives we have in store as we continue to serve as the premier regional university in the Red River Valley.” 

Learn more about the Tuition-free Pathway for ND and SD Residents: https://www.mnstate.edu/tuition-free-dakotas/

Read President Tim Downs’ editorial on the importance of affordability.