Affordability Matters: MSU Moorhead Expands North Star Promise to ND and SD Students

The cost of education is on every student’s and parent’s mind -- from stretching each dollar as far as it will go to understanding the value of their education. Affordability matters. This philosophy has always been part of our DNA at MSU Moorhead (affectionately known as Moorhead State University.)

As we approach the final phase of awarding student financial aid for fall of 2024, MSU Moorhead proudly announces our expansion of the North Star Promise, a tuition-free program making higher education more affordable for students not only in Minnesota, but also those from North Dakota and South Dakota.

The State of Minnesota’s North Star Promise Scholarship is an incredible investment for our students in Minnesota. It provides a tuition and fee-free pathway to higher education for eligible Minnesota students, including those attending MSUM. The North Star Promise covers the balance of tuition and fees remaining after other scholarships, grants, stipends, and tuition waivers have been applied. The program is for Minnesota residents with family Adjusted Gross Incomes of $80,000 or less, with a few additional eligibility requirements. Our university-funded expansion of this program will make it available to our students from North Dakota and South Dakota who meet the same eligibility requirements. The only difference is that MSUM’s program will cover the balances of tuition only.

As the new President of Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM), part of what drew me to the state was Minnesota’s rich history of serving students at all educational levels and, specifically, supporting higher education. I’m also proud to be a part of the Minnesota State system where enhancing access to education is a key pillar of the Minnesota State system Equity 2030 initiative. The reality is that, as a border university, it is imperative that we make education accessible to all the students in our region who have traditionally had difficulties accessing higher education.

We recognize that education isn’t just a game-changer; it’s a life-changer. We see it daily. Last year, 90% of MSUM graduates were gainfully employed or receiving advanced degrees in their fields. Of those seeking employment our graduates earned an average salary of $53,000.

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. We are thrilled to continue this journey of transformation and innovation, advancing the lives and careers of the students we serve. This expanded North Star Promise 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.

We encourage you to share news of the North Star Promise with any student who may benefit from this opportunity.

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