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Minnesota Dream Act

Students from Minnesota who are undocumented or have an ineligible immigration status for federal financial aid can apply for state financial aid by accessing the . The MN Dream Act will provide aid opportunities to those who meet the residency requirements and other criteria.

Important Dates

Submitting the application as soon as possible ensures you receive first-come, first-served additional grant aid.

  • Application opens: October 1st of the year before the school year
  • Deadline: June 30, 2024

MN Dream Act Application

The online application through the State of Minnesota is available in both English and Spanish.

Eligibility Requirements

The MN Dream Act provides aid opportunities to undocumented students who meet the following criteria:

  • Attended a Minnesota high school for at least 3 years; and
  • Graduated from a Minnesota high school/earned a GED in Minnesota; and
  • Complied with Selective Service registration requirements*; and
  • Provide documentation to show they have applied for lawful immigration status but only if a federal process exists for a student to do so (does not include applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals).

*applies only to male students born 1960 or after for those whose only way of establishing MN resident student status is via the MN Dream Act

Who Can Apply?

The allows Minnesota students who are not eligible for federal financial aid to participate in the State of Minnesota financial aid programs. This can include:

  • DACA recipients
  • U-Visa holders
  • Students with pending asylum applications

 

NOTE: The fully online application is available in both English and Spanish. Once the application is submitted, the MN Office of Higher Education must verify your family income. If you need assistance, you may work with the St. Thomas Financial Aid Office.

Types of Aid

Minnesota Grant

This is gift aid that does not need to be repaid. The grant will vary based on income and credit level. For the 2024-25 school year, this grant is available for 6 full-time years of undergraduate education to complete one bachelor's degree.

Minnesota SELF Loan

This is an educational loan through the State of Minnesota, which offers competitive interest rates for students. Loans must be repaid once a student completes school or drops below half time. However, interest accrued on the loan must be paid quarterly while you are in school. A U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident cosigner is required.

Child Care Grant

Students with children under the age of 12 may qualify for this grant* to reimburse child care costs.

*requires second application