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College can be a big expense, but it doesn't have to break the bank. Many students are turning to online classes to help them save money.
Attending classes online can help students pay less overall by eliminating campus fees, housing fees, and the cost of commuting. Some schools also charge less for online courses.
Minnesota has 92 different schools that offer online courses. We've compiled a list of the best free and low-cost online colleges and universities in Minnesota to help narrow your search.
List of Free and Low-Cost Colleges and Universities in Minnesota
1. Bemidji State University
Bemidji State University is a public university located in the city of Bemidji, in the northern part of Minnesota. They offer both undergraduate and graduate online programs.
BSU charges the same tuition price for on-campus and online courses. They charge $313.55 per undergrad credit, though some programs have small additional fees.
You can get several types of degrees through BSU's distance degree program, including accounting, business administration, criminal justice, and nursing.
2. Lake Superior College
Lake Superior College is a public community college. They have a campus in Duluth, on the coast of Lake Superior, but also have a robust eLearning program.
Tuition for online courses costs slightly more than on-campus courses. The average cost per online credit is $204.17, while the average per in-person credit is $192.81.
Senior citizens get a discount at LSC. Both online and in-person credits cost only $20 each.
3. Metropolitan State University
Metropolitan State University is a public university. While the school is located in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, it offers both undergrad and graduate degrees online.
The university charges the same price whether you take courses online or in-person. Undergrad credits are $285.70 each, while graduate credits are $491.39 each.
Metropolitan State University's online undergraduate programs include degrees in business administration, criminal justice, finance, marketing, and nursing. They offer master's degrees in business administration and public administration, among others.
4. Minnesota State University, Mankato
Minnesota State University, Mankato is Minnesota's second-largest university. This public university is located in Mankato, southwest of the Twin Cities.
There are a small handful of options for online undergraduate degrees, including nursing and business administration. Online credits are $367.90 per credit. Online master's degrees cost $776.35 per credit, and include degrees in accounting and taxation.
How Can I Get an Online College Degree for Free in Minnesota?
While no colleges or universities in Minnesota offer completely free tuition to all students, you may be eligible for financial aid that can significantly reduce the cost you pay.
Federal Student Aid
Federal Student Aid is an office of the U.S. Department of Education and is the country's largest provider of financial aid to students. They offer grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
Grants are a type of financial aid that doesn't have to be repaid, while loans require you to pay back the aid with interest. For a work-study program, you'll work part-time to pay for school.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Student Aid, or FAFSA, is the form you fill out to apply for financial aid through the federal government. There is no income limit to qualify for federal student aid, and many factors are considered to determine what you are eligible for. To determine your eligibility, you'll need to fill out FAFSA.
To apply for FAFSA, you'll need to create an account on the Federal Student Aid website. You'll also need:
- Your social security number
- Your parents' social security numbers if you're their dependent
- Your driver's license number if you have a license
- Your Alien Registration number if you're not a U.S. citizen
- Federal tax information for you, your spouse if you have one, and your parents if you're still a dependent
- Records of untaxed income, such as child support
- Records of bank account balances, cash, investments, and assets
Pell Grant
Pell Grants are a type of federal grant given to undergraduate students who have the greatest financial need. Because this is a grant, students do not have to repay this aid.
The maximum amount you can qualify for through the Federal Pell Grant is currently $7,395. To if you qualify and for how much, you'll need to fill out FAFSA.
Scholarships in Minnesota
Scholarships are sums of money given to a student by an organization. These can be given for many reasons, including:
- Academic achievement
- Athletics
- Financial need
- Special talents
The U.S. Department of Labor's CareerOneStop website has a comprehensive list of available scholarships, including scholarships only offered to Minnesota residents.
How Can I Cover Additional Online Degree Costs in Minnesota?
If you've exhausted your options for grants and scholarships, you may need to look at covering the rest of your costs through student loans.
There are many student loan lenders, including the federal government. The Minnesota Office of Higher Education also offers the SELF Loan.
Rates for the SELF Loan are the same for everyone and not based on credit scores, making it a great option for students with low or no credit.
FAQs Regarding Free Online College Degrees in Minnesota
Is an Online Degree Cheaper than an In-Person Degree in Minnesota?
In some cases, an online degree costs less than an in-person degree, especially when you don't have to pay for campus housing or a commute.
Does FAFSA Cover Online College in Minnesota?
Many schools in Minnesota accept FAFSA, but it's a good idea to check with the school before applying.
Does Minnesota Have Free Tuition?
There are no free online colleges in Minnesota. However, some students may not pay any tuition once their financial aid and scholarships are applied.
Find a Free or Low-Cost Degree Online in Minnesota Today
You don't need to spend a fortune to get a good education. Start a new chapter by finding an online program in Minnesota today. For more information, reach out to Best Accredited Colleges.
