Minnesota

Minnesota Scholarships and Grants

If you are a high school senior, this just might be the busiest year of your life! You’ve got a million things to do – senior photos and activities, college applications to fill out, and looking forward to your next big step into a whole new world – college! There is another item that belongs on your long list of activities – filling out scholarship applications. Why? You’ve worked hard. Everyone certainly understands that going to college is expensive. Who can’t use a little extra financial assistance to help out? Listed below are a number of opportunities, but they are only the tip of the iceberg. If you don’t find a fit in these, contact your high school guidance counselor ASAP, and see what else is out there. Have a great year, and wishing you the best ever at college!

American Legion Minnesota Legionnaire Insurance Trust

Are you the descendant or dependent of a US military veteran? If so, and if you meet other qualifications, you might just receive this scholarship. Other eligibility requirements include residing in Minnesota, having a parent who is an active member of an American Legion Unit, be able to demonstrate the need for financial assistance, and have good grades. Along with an application you will need letters of recommendation, an essay, transcript, and proof of eligibility. The award is for $500 and can be used in designated Minnesota schools as well as designated colleges and universities in bordering states. For details, contact www.mnlegion.org.

Minnesota American Legion Memorial

This scholarship is almost the same as the one noted above, except, rather than being a dependent of a veteran, grandchildren of American Legion members are eligible. Awards are for the same amount — $500 – and can be spent in the same manner. Contact www.mnlegion.org to find out more.

Past President’s Parley Health Care

If you have a parent who is an active member of an American Legion unit in Minnesota, and you reside in state, check this one out. It is designed for those interested in a career in health care, and is in the amount of $1,000. Go to www.mnala.org for details.

Horatio Alger

If you are a high school senior who has already faced and overcome great obstacles in your life, you need to take a closer look at this program.

Other requirements include students must attend school and reside in Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, or Washington counties; that you be able to demonstrate financial need; that you have a minimum GPA of 2.0, and have a record of good academic achievement; that you are serious-minded in your approach to your future; and, that you are service oriented. Along with your completed application you will need to submit an essay, copy of your transcript, a letter of support, and an income statement. The scholarship may be used for full-time undergrad study at 2 or 4-year institutions in the United States. There is no specified field of study for this award, but you must be in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. For more details please check out this website: www.horatioalger.org/scholarships. Awards are for $4,000 each.

Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program

If you are a high school senior residing in Minnesota, and have proof that you are at least one-quarter American Indian, and want to attend college at least three-quarters of the time, you need to check into this offer. You must also be eligible for a Pell grant or Minnesota state grant. There are 1,806 of these awards – ranging from $4,000 to $6,000 — to be given out, and they are made on a first-come, first-served basis. Monies may be used at designated Minnesota colleges and universities. If you think you qualify, don’t hesitate for another minute. If you would like more details go to the website: www.getreadyforcollege.org/indianscholarship.

People with Disabilities

Are you visually or hearing impaired, or perhaps physically challenged? If you reside in Minnesota, and can demonstrate your need for financial assistance, you may qualify for this scholarship. Application requirements include an essay and a personal interview. Scholarship amounts range from $500-$1,000, and may be utilized to finance your continued full-time education at an accredited vocational, 2 or 4-year college or university. Contact the Courage Center for Vocational Services for more information – www.couragecenter.org/ContentPages/Resources.aspx.