MSUM expands tuition-free scholarship program to North and South Dakota residents

(Moorhead, MN) -- MSUM is announcing a new scholarship program that would allow prospective North Dakota and South Dakota students to earn their education tuition-free. 

Minnesota State University Moorhead will be offering their own version of the North Star Promise Program to North Dakota and South Dakota residents. The program is completely college funded, allowing Dakota residents who make less than $80,000 per year in family adjusted gross income to earn their Bachelor's degree tuition free. There are no grade eligibility requirements, and the program has no set end date.

“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.” 

The program also has the potential to include other states besides the Dakotas. Jason Trainer, the VP of Strategic Enrollment, hinted at states like Wisconsin and "several others" being included in the future. 

"I can tell you my experience with similar types of programs that we saw significant increases in students choosing the institution based on that," said Trainer, who hopes the program will bring up enrollment and retention for students who are eligible for the new program.

WDAY Radio has reached out to NDSU  and NDUS officials for comment.