Minnesota Dream Act
Minnesota Dream Act Means Qualifying Students Are Eligible for In-State Tuition Rates & State Financial Aid
The Prosperity Act, also called the Minnesota Dream Act, authorized in-state tuition rates and private scholarship aid at public institutions for Minnesota high school graduates meeting certain criteria. The Act makes qualifying undergraduate and graduate students eligible for in-state tuition rates as of July 1, 2013. Under the Minnesota Dream Act, eligible students may also be considered for state financial aid.
The University of Minnesota believes that providing college opportunities for young people—especially Minnesota's own high school graduates—serves the public interest by creating a college-educated workforce that promotes Minnesota's economic and cultural development.
The legislation requested that the Board of Regents exercise its constitutional authority to adopt a policy implementing a similar provision for students meeting eligibility criteria. On July 10, 2013, the University of Minnesota Board of Regents approved a resolution based on the new state law for the University's in-state tuition policy and indicated that the University will participate in the Minnesota Dream Act. The resolution extends the benefits of in-state tuition rates and private scholarships to eligible students, regardless of immigration status, to include undocumented students.
All incoming or current students and staff with questions about immigration-related matters are encouraged to contact the Immigration Response Team or take advantage of the resources available on your campus. The team is ready to meet and consult with students who have questions about their immigration status or their situation at the university. Department heads and advisors can also contact the Immigration Response Team. Faculty and advisors are also encouraged to refer students with concerns to the team for support and consultations.
Note: The Minnesota Dream Act was established through state legislation and action by the Board of Regents. It will continue to be in place even if DACA is terminated at the federal level. Eligible Minnesota high school graduates will continue to be eligible for in-state resident tuition and state/privately-funded financial aid, and they are welcome to apply to study at any of the University of Minnesota’s campuses.
About the Minnesota Dream Act
What is the Minnesota Prosperity Act (Minnesota Dream Act)?
The Minnesota Dream Act, which is also known as The Prosperity Act, was passed into Minnesota law in May 2013 and then adopted as an official University of Minnesota policy in July 2013 by Board of Regents resolution. Under this new law and policy, undocumented Minnesota high school graduates meeting certain criteria can benefit in these ways:
- In-state resident tuition rates for undergraduate and graduate students at public colleges and universities, including all University of Minnesota campuses*, regardless of immigration status.
- State financial aid available to students who meet state residency requirements, regardless of immigration status.
- Privately funded financial aid through public colleges and universities, including aid from the University of Minnesota, regardless of immigration status, to include undocumented students.
I am an undocumented student. Am I eligible to benefit from the Minnesota Dream Act?
The Minnesota Office of Higher Education will determine who is eligible to benefit from the Dream Act. Generally, students are eligible if they have attended a Minnesota high school for at least three years, have graduated from a Minnesota high school (or earned a GED in Minnesota), and who have registered with the U.S. Selective Service (applies only to males 18 to 25 years old). The complete details on eligibility and a Dream Act Application are available at the Minnesota Office of Higher Education Dream Act website.
Why did the University of Minnesota adopt the Dream Act as University policy?
At the University of Minnesota, we are wholly committed to removing barriers for students to obtain education. The University's administration is dedicated to supporting student success, regardless of a student's immigrant status. Equity and diversity are core institutional values at the University of Minnesota, and these values inform our policies and every aspect of our work.
What are my next steps?
You can begin gathering the documentation that demonstrates you have graduated from a Minnesota high school and registering for the selective service. Visit the Minnesota Office of Higher Education Dream Act website for detailed information and next steps. That website is the most important and up-to-date resource regarding the Minnesota Dream Act.
Whom can I contact with questions?
Visit the Minnesota Office of Higher Education Dream Act website or call the Minnesota Office of Higher Education grant unit at 800-657-3866. They will be able to arrange for translation services if you or a family member needs translation.
Crookston, Morris, and Rochester campuses do not have out-of-state tuition rates.
At the University of Minnesota, we are wholly committed to removing barriers for students to obtain education. The University's administration is dedicated to supporting student success, regardless of a student's immigrant status. Equity and diversity are core institutional values at the University of Minnesota, and these values inform our policies and every aspect of our work.