There is a financial assistance program available to pay college costs for students graduating in 2016 and enrolling in qualifying career and technical programs at select two-year colleges and universities in Minnesota. Students can complete the program within two years or less and find employment in a high-demand occupation. The program was created by the 2015 Minnesota Legislature and will be implemented for the 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 academic years as a pilot program.

The grant will cover any remaining tuition and general fee charges after the student's Federal Pell Grant and Minnesota State Grant have been applied to their account. Program-specific fees and equipment are not covered. The grant is available for up to 72 semester credits, including any required developmental courses taken after admission to the occupational program.

For example, those interested in working in health and wellness may consider Anoka Ramsey Community College that offers a two-year degree in Integrative Health & Healing. More information can be found on their website AnokaRamsey.edu.

More information can be found by doing a search for “MNSCU Two-Year Occupational Grant Pilot Program” at these websites: ohe.State.mn.us or mnscu.edu, along with a list of the schools, programs offered and criteria for eligibility.