Employee News
MSU Moorhead and Moorhead Area Public Schools Launch Moorhead Scholars Program

MSU Moorhead and Moorhead Area Public Schools Launch Moorhead Scholars Program

Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSU Moorhead) is excited to announce the launch of the Moorhead Scholars program, a groundbreaking partnership with Moorhead Area Public Schools that keeps high-performing students in the community by offering a full-tuition guarantee to MSU Moorhead. The program was announced at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 21, at the Christianson Alumni Center on MSUM’s campus. 

Starting with the Class of 2025, graduates of Moorhead High School with a GPA of 3.0 or higher can receive a four-year commitment of free college tuition at MSU Moorhead. This is accomplished through a combination of federal, state and institutional grants and scholarships. 

“We are proud to partner with Moorhead Area Public Schools in offering this opportunity for Moorhead’s brightest students,” said Dr. Tim Downs, President of MSU Moorhead. “By investing in the next generation of scholars, we are investing in the future of our community.” 

Moorhead Scholars is a last-dollar program designed to recognize and reward academic excellence by covering any remaining tuition costs at MSUM after all available gift aid has been applied. This innovative partnership highlights a shared commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering educational success within the Moorhead community. 

To become a Moorhead Scholar, students must meet the following criteria: 

  • Graduate from Moorhead High School – ISD 152 (Class of 2025 and beyond) 
  • Achieve a minimum high school GPA of 3.0 
  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by May 1 
  • Enroll as a full-time student at MSU Moorhead in the fall following their high school graduation 

“This program aligns perfectly with our goal to help students thrive in a changing world,” said Superintendent Brandon Lunak. “We believe in supporting academic achievement and 
opening doors to higher education right here in Moorhead.” 

“The Moorhead Scholars program will do more than support students – it is building a stronger Moorhead,” said Mayor Shelly Carlson. “The future of our community depends on empowering the next generation, and this program does exactly that.”