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Scholarships
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Scholarships
Find Minnesota scholarships that can help you pay for college
Here's a scholarship you can apply for in minutes.
Scholarships for Minnesota
6 days left!
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Sallie $2,000 No Essay Scholarship
Due: 3/31/26
$2,000
ASM Global Stars Scholarship Program
Due: 3/25/26
$2,500
As the world's leading venue management company and producer of live event experiences, ASM Global is offering the ASM Global Stars Scholarship Program, which reflects the commitment to providing diverse and under-resourced communities with educational and career development opportunities through scholarship awards and prospective internships. Applicants must self-identify as one or more of the following: Female (any race/ethnicity), Black or African American, American Indian or Alaska Native, Hispanic or Latino, Asian, or Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander. Applicants must also be high school seniors or graduates, or current undergraduate students residing in the United States. They must be pursuing a degree in either Business/International Business (Marketing, Information Systems, Accounting, Finance, Human Resources); Hospitality, Entertainment, Sports Management; Communications, Public Relations, Digital Media; Information Technology; or Graphic Design. Applicants must also reside within 25 miles in one of the eligible cities. Two will be granted to students who reside or attend a school in Kent County, Michigan; and two awards will be granted to students who reside within 25 miles of New Orleans, LA. If qualified applications are received, preference will be given to applicants who are first-generation college students. Employees of ASM Global, ASM Global Acts Foundation, or their affiliates, and children of those employees, are not eligible. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
6 days left!
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Sterbenz-Ryan Scholarship
Due: 3/31/26
|No essay
|No min. GPA Required
|No Transcripts Required
$2,000
The Sterbenz-Ryan Scholarship was established in 2016 by local businessmen Richard Sterbenz and Martin Ryan who wanted to "give kids like them a shot at life they never had." Scholarships will be offered to eligible traditional and non-traditional students who otherwise may not have the opportunity to attend a public post-secondary school in Minnesota or Wisconsin due to challenging life circumstances and financial constraints. If you are renewing your Sterbenz-Ryan Scholarship, you must enter a provided access code. Applicants must be graduating seniors or non-traditional students seeking scholarship to attend any public Minnesota or Wisconsin college (technical, community, university). Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the St. Croix Valley Foundation for more information.
7 days left!
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Minnesota American Legion Memorial Scholarship
Due: 4/1/26
|No min. GPA Required
$500
The purpose of the Minnesota American Legion Memorial Scholarship is to provide financial assistance to students to further their education in any Minnesota university, college, vocational school, or other accredited institutions of higher education, or in states with a Minnesota reciprocity agreement. Applicants shall be a legal descendent of a Veteran member of the American Legion; and/or a legal descendent of an American Legion Auxiliary member. Applicants shall be a high school graduate upon receipt of the scholarship, and must meet the academic standards of the school they will be attending. Applicants must have a good record of school and community citizenship, indicate their loyalty to their country, and show the qualities of initiative and desire to pursue an education beyond high school. The scholarship award is for one year only, but applications may be made for aid in succeeding years, should no applications be received for the first year studies. Applicants must submit at least two letters of recommendation. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
7 days left!
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Printing Industry Midwest Education Foundation Scholarship
Due: 4/1/26
$2,000
The Printing Industry Midwest Education Foundation offers renewable scholarships to those enrolled in two or four-year institutions and technical colleges offering degrees in the print communication discipline. In order to ensure acceptance, students must apply for admission to an accredited technical school, college or university. The scholarship grants are restricted to accredited colleges, universities, and technical schools that offer established one, two, and four-year programs leading to an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or graphic arts diploma recognized by the print communications industry, and are approved by the PIM Education Scholarship Committee. Priority will be given to a son or daughter of a full-time employee of a member of the Printing Industry Midwest. Applicants must provide two recommendation forms completed by a high school teacher, principal, advisor, counselor, employer, or another adult (other than a family). Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
Garden Club of Minneapolis Scholarship Program
Due: 4/10/26
|No min. GPA Required
|No Transcripts Required
$2,000
Since 1992 the Garden Club of Minneapolis has awarded thousands of scholarships to students of horticulture. Any Minnesota student who is currently working towards a degree and career in horticulture, landscaping, or a related professional area, is encouraged to apply. Applicants may be a first-year student at Hennepin Technical College in the Horticulture and Landscape curriculum who expects to graduate in 2026; a first-year student studying Horticulture and Landscape at Hennepin Technical College who expects to graduate in June of 2026; a freshman studying Sustainable Landscape at Central Lakes College in Brainerd who expects to earn an Associate Degree in the spring of 2026; a first-year student studying Sustainable Landscaping Technology at Central Lakes College who expects to graduate in May of 2026; or a sophomore studying Plant Science-Breeding and Genetics at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities who expects to graduate fall of 2026. Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation from an individual (non-family) with knowledge regarding the applicant's horticultural experience and goals. The letter must be from a college instructor, administrator or advisor knowledgeable about the applicant. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.
Major Don S. Gentile Scholarship
Due: 4/15/26
|No Transcripts Required
$6,000
The UNICO Foundation will award the Major Don S. Gentile Scholarship to high school seniors at any public or private secondary school who will be attending an accredited campus-based college or university program in the United States. The scholarship will be paid out for up to a maximum of 4 years. Online degree programs are not eligible for UNICO scholarships. Applicants must be of Italian descent. They must have at least one parent of Italian heritage. Documented and notarized proof may be requested by the selection committee, if necessary. Applicants must also reside in or have a UNICO Chapter or District sponsor from one of the eligible states. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the UNICO Foundation Inc. for more information.
William C. Davini Scholarship
Due: 4/15/26
|No Transcripts Required
$6,000
The UNICO Foundation will award the William C. Davini Scholarship to high school seniors at any public or private secondary school who will be attending an accredited campus-based college or university program in the United States. The scholarship will be paid out for up to a maximum of 4 years. Online degree programs are not eligible for UNICO scholarships. Applicants must be of Italian descent. They must have at least one parent of Italian heritage. Documented and notarized proof may be requested by the selection committee, if necessary. Applicants must also reside in or have a UNICO Chapter or District sponsor from one of the eligible states. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the UNICO Foundation Inc. for more information.
Sergeant John Basilone Memorial Graduate Scholarship
Due: 4/15/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
$3,000
The Sergeant John Basilone Memorial Graduate Scholarship is open for application to a senior undergraduate at any public or private college or university or a graduate thereof who is initiating graduate studies in the United States. Students already attending grad school do not qualify. Online degree programs are not eligible for UNICO scholarships. Applicants must be of Italian descent. They must have at least one parent of Italian heritage. Documented and notarized proof may be requested by the selection committee, if necessary. Applicants must also reside in or have a UNICO Chapter or District sponsor from one of the eligible states. Submission of letters of recommendation is optional. If the applicant is being sponsored by a local chapter, a chapter of a family member or a local district, the applicant will be asked to provide the name and email address for the chapter or district contact for the option of attaching a letter of endorsement. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the UNICO Foundation Inc. for more information.
Louise Torraco Memorial Scholarship for Science
Due: 4/15/26
|No Recommendations Required
$2,500
The Louise Torraco Memorial Scholarship for Science will be awarded to students currently pursuing a degree in the Physical Sciences including but not limited to Agro-Sciences, Astronomy, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, and Physics; or in the Life Sciences including but not limited to Anatomy, Biochemistry, Biology, Botany, Microbiology and Zoology. This program is open to applicants of all ethnicities. Online degree programs are not eligible for UNICO scholarships. Applicants must also reside in or have a UNICO Chapter or District sponsor from one of the eligible states. Submission of letters of recommendation is optional. If the applicant is being sponsored by a local chapter, a chapter of a family member or a local district, the applicant will be asked to provide the name and email address for the chapter or district contact for the option of attaching a letter of endorsement. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the UNICO Foundation Inc. for more information.
Key things to know about Minnesota scholarships
- Minnesota scholarships are free money for school. They can help you pay for tuition, books, and other education expenses, with no repayment required.
- Scholarships aren't just for brand-new freshmen. There are Minnesota scholarships for high school seniors, current college students, transfer students, grad students, and adult learners.
- You can combine multiple awards. Scholarships from your school and private organizations can be added together to reduce your total college costs even more.
- GPA often matters, but it's not the only factor. Some Minnesota scholarships are merit based, but others look at leadership, community service, identity, financial need, major, or long-term goals.
- Applying regularly can really add up. Submitting a few scholarship applications every month can snowball into meaningful savings on your college bill.
Paying for college can feel overwhelming. That's why maximizing free money you don't have to pay back—like scholarships and grants—should be part of your funding plan. If you live in Minnesota, you have access to scholarships created specifically for Minnesota students.
Minnesota scholarships can make big difference in helping you afford college. Sallie Mae’s How America Pays for College 2025 found 75% of students who received a scholarship said it made college possible. Whether you're in high school, college, graduate school, or heading back to the school after time away, scholarships can help you reduce what you pay out of pocket or borrow.
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What are Minnesota scholarships?
Minnesota scholarships are financial awards designed to help students cover the cost of college, graduate school, or career training programs. These awards can come from many different places, including colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations, local foundations, and employers.
Unlike student loans, scholarship funds do not need to be repaid. While some awards do look at test scores or grades, many Minnesota scholarships focus on your story and experiences, such as:
- Community service, leadership, or extracurricular involvement
- Your intended major, field of study, or career interests
- Minnesota residency or a particular city, county, or region
- Identity-based criteria or connection to a specific community
- Career and technical education or workforce training pathways
- Artistic, athletic, or technical talents
Because eligibility can vary so much from one program to the next, students with many different backgrounds and goals can find scholarships that fit.
What scholarships are available for Minnesota students?
Most students see the best results when they apply to more than one type of scholarship at once. In Minnesota, scholarships generally fall into three broad groups: awards from colleges, local and community-based scholarships, and private or employer-sponsored programs.
To explore options that match your background, interests, and goals, use search tools like Scholly Scholarships to find opportunities in Minnesota and across the country.
If you're looking for top Minnesota scholarships, be sure to include local awards and institutional scholarships through your school, since these opportunities may have smaller applicant pools and can often be renewed year to year.
Local and community scholarships in Minnesota
Local scholarships are sometimes less competitive because they draw from a smaller pool of applicants. These awards are typically created to support students from particular Minnesota cities, counties, school districts, or regions.
Local scholarships may be offered by:
- Community and regional foundations
- City or county agencies and organizations
- Cultural, heritage, or civic groups
- Labor unions and professional associations
- Local employers and small businesses
Institutional scholarships from Minnesota colleges
Many Minnesota colleges automatically review applicants for institutional scholarships as part of the admission process, while others require a separate application. These awards may be based on academics, major, leadership, or other factors like talent or special involvement.
Students attending institutions such as the University of Minnesota, Minnesota State University, Mankato, or Minneapolis College may qualify for institutional scholarships through their financial aid offices. Some awards are automatic with admission, while others require a separate scholarship application.
Examples include:
- Minnesota public universities: University-wide and departmental scholarships for new and continuing students
- Regional and state universities: Merit-based, need-based, and program-specific awards
- Minnesota community and technical colleges: Foundation scholarships, donor-funded awards, and program-based support
- Private colleges: Institutional merit scholarships that may significantly lower published tuition
Still exploring your options? You can compare programs, costs, and average financial aid packages with Scout College Search.
Additional financial aid resources in Minnesota
Alongside Minnesota scholarships, there are state programs that function as grants or tuition support rather than traditional scholarships.
Minnesota State Grant
The Minnesota State Grant is a need-based state grant program that can help eligible residents pay for college. Awards often depend on FAFSA® information, enrollment level, and other eligibility rules.
North Star Promise Tuition Program
The North Star Promise Tuition Program is a Minnesota tuition-support program designed to reduce tuition costs for eligible Minnesota residents at participating institutions. Because eligibility and award structure may depend on FAFSA® and enrollment, students should review current requirements and deadlines.
Minnesota Indian Scholarship
The Minnesota Indian Scholarship is a state-supported program intended to help eligible American Indian students pay for college or training. Eligibility can depend on residency and documentation requirements, so students should check current guidance and timelines.
Minnesota Student Teacher Grants
Minnesota Student Teacher Grants are designed to help eligible students cover costs related to student teaching. These programs typically have specific eligibility and participation requirements, so students should confirm documentation needs and deadlines early.
Workforce Development Scholarships
Workforce Development Scholarships are intended to support students entering high-demand fields, often through eligible programs and participating schools. Requirements can vary by field and institution, so verify whether your program qualifies before you apply.
Scholly Scholarships
Find scholarships now
Find scholarships that are right for you
Easily search through thousands of college scholarships based on your background, major, state you live in, and more.
Hot tip! Smaller scholarships may have less competition, increasing your odds of winning.
How to apply for Minnesota scholarships
Breaking the process into smaller pieces can make applying for scholarships feel more manageable.
- Pull together key documents early, such as your transcript, activity list, resume, and a basic personal statement.
- Make a list of scholarships that fit your background, major, and goals, focusing on both statewide and local programs.
- Work through a few applications at a time so the process stays consistent but not overwhelming.
- Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) so you can be considered for need-based scholarships, grants, and other aid.
- Use a calendar, spreadsheet, or checklist to keep track of application requirements and deadlines.
- Read instructions carefully and double-check your application before you hit submit.
Looking for a faster way to get started? With Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships, you can use a single application to apply to multiple scholarships at once.
Eligibility requirements for Minnesota scholarships
Each program sets its own rules, but many Minnesota scholarships share some common eligibility requirements, such as:
- Proof of Minnesota residency (for certain state and community-based programs)
- Enrollment or planned enrollment at an eligible Minnesota college, university, or training program
- Minimum GPA or academic progress standards for merit-based awards
- Specific major, concentration, or career pathway
- Financial need (for need-based scholarships and grants)
- Community service, leadership, or extracurricular involvement
How can I improve my chances of winning a scholarship?
- Mix large and small scholarships.
Big awards are appealing, but smaller scholarships often receive fewer applications, and several smaller wins can add up. - Tune your scholarship essays to each opportunity.
Reusing core stories is fine — just tailor your essay so it clearly connects to the scholarship’s mission and values. - Request letters of recommendation early.
Giving teachers, counselors, or supervisors more time usually leads to stronger, more detailed letters. - Showcase your impact.
Highlight long-term involvement, leadership roles, and specific ways you have contributed to your school or community. - Complete the FAFSA® as soon as you can.
Some forms of state and institutional aid are limited and may be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
More scholarship resources
Minnesota students can use these resources to locate scholarships that align with their major, experiences, and long-term plans.
- Scholarships by major
See scholarship options connected to your intended field of study. - Scholarships for high school seniors
Ideal if you are planning for college during your senior year of high school. - Scholarships for college students
Scholarship opportunities continue after freshman year — explore options for current undergraduates. - Scholarships for first-generation students
If you are the first in your family to attend college, these awards are designed with you in mind. - Scholarships for adults and returning learners
Find support if you are going back to school later in life or finishing a degree. - Scholarships for women
Explore scholarships that support women across a variety of majors and career paths. - LGBTQ+ scholarships
Discover scholarships that support students who identify as LGBTQ+ or who are allies. - STEM scholarships
Funding options for students pursuing science, technology, engineering, or math degrees. - Scholarships for graduate students
Learn about scholarships that can help reduce the cost of master’s, PhD, or professional programs. - Scholarships for minority students
Scholarship programs supporting students from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds. - Scholarships for Native American students
Opportunities for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students.
Your next steps
Minnesota scholarships can play a major role in making college, grad school, or career training more affordable. By combining state programs, institutional aid, local awards, and private scholarships — and by applying on a regular basis — you can lower how much you need to spend out of pocket or borrow.
To keep your search moving, look at monthly opportunities like Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships, our $2,000 No Essay Scholarship, and $5,000 No Essay Grad School Scholarship. These low-effort options can help you start applying, even if you are short on time.
To explore scholarships tailored to your state, background, and interests, search using Scholly Scholarships.
FAQs about Minnesota scholarships
What scholarships are available for Minnesota students?
Minnesota students can pursue local and community scholarships, institutional awards through colleges, and scholarship-like state programs. You can also search for Minnesota scholarships using Scholly Scholarships.
What is the Minnesota State Grant?
The Minnesota State Grant is a need-based state grant program that can help eligible residents pay for college, often using information from the FAFSA® and enrollment details.
How does the North Star Promise Program?
North Star Promise is a Minnesota tuition-support program aimed at reducing tuition costs for eligible students at participating institutions. Check current eligibility rules and deadlines based on your school and FAFSA® timeline.
Are there scholarships for Minnesota technical or community college students?
Yes. Many Minnesota community and technical colleges offer institutional scholarships, and students may also qualify for workforce-focused programs and local community awards.
Do Minnesota colleges offer their own scholarships?
Yes. Many Minnesota colleges provide merit, need-based, and department scholarships through their financial aid offices, sometimes automatically through admissions.
Where should Minnesota students start for free money for college?
Start with the FAFSA®, then build a list of local, institutional, and statewide options. Tracking requirements and deadlines helps you stay organized.
Are there easy scholarships Minnesota students can apply for?
Some scholarships have shorter applications or fewer requirements. You can also explore Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships to apply to multiple opportunities with one streamlined application.
Can Minnesota scholarships be combined with other aid?
Sometimes. Stacking depends on scholarship rules and your school’s financial aid policies, so confirm with your financial aid office before accepting outside awards.
When are most Minnesota scholarship deadlines?
Deadlines vary by program. Many scholarships align with academic-year timelines, while local awards may open at different times. Use the scholarship deadlines guide to keep track.
Do I need to complete the FAFSA® to get Minnesota scholarships?
Not all scholarships require FAFSA®, but many need-based programs and grants do. Completing the FAFSA® early can unlock more Minnesota aid options.
Need more money for college?
Private student loans can help you cover additional costs for school.
No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. See Official Rules and Entry Periods on each scholarship page.
FAFSA® is a registered service mark of U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid.