Minnesota- Fostering Independence Higher Education Grant (FIG)

About this resource

Free College for Foster Youth in Minnesota 

Big news: If you were in foster care in Minnesota, you may be able to go to college for free!

Thanks to a new law passed in 2022, Minnesota covers the full cost of college for students who’ve been in foster care. That includes:

• Tuition

• Housing & food

• Books & school supplies

• Transportation

• A laptop & other essentials

• Study-abroad fees

• Disability-related costs (if needed)

Before the state covers everything, a navigator will help you apply for other scholarships and grants. Whatever isn’t covered, the state pays the rest.

What You Should Do

• Still in touch with your caseworker or STAY worker? Reach out to them and ask about the "Minnesota college for free" program.

• Don't have their info? Contact your local DHS or STAY office.

• Not sure who to call?
  
  Call the Minnesota Department of Human Services at 📞 651-431-4686
  
  Tell them: “I’m a former foster youth, and I’m calling about Minnesota’s free college program.”

Who can use this resource (eligibility)?