CLC is your First Choice for a Smart Start
Why settle for less when you can start smart? Start your journey in a place where your potential is recognized and supported.
More opportunities. Less compromise. Choose pathways that open doors—whether you’re planning a career or transferring onward.
The personalized education you deserve—without the unnecessary costs. Your goals matter. Your experience matters. Your investment should, too.
Big education. Small financial footprint. Make a powerful start—without overwhelming debt.
Top-tier programs, hands-on learning, and a community that invests in you. Gain real experience that leads to meaningful careers and strong income potential, so you can build the life you want.
Affordability
FREE tuition and fees for all Minnesota students with a family income under $80,000 with the North Star Promise Scholarship.
Scholarships available through the CLC Foundation which awards over $450,000 annually to students.
Not only is our tuition the lowest in the state, Minnesota State and Central Lakes College students have access to countless scholarships and financial aid options – helping to break down the financial barrier to a college education. In fact, between 32% and 59% of Minnesota State students graduate with no debt at all — depending on the academic award received.
North Star Promise Scholarship Program
Earn your degree, tuition free — that’s the Northstar Promise!
The North Star Promise (NSP) Scholarship program will create a tuition and fee-free pathway to higher education for eligible Minnesota residents at eligible institutions (Central Lakes College) as a “last-dollar” program by covering the balance of tuition and fees remaining after other scholarships, grants, stipends and tuition waivers have been applied.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligible students must:
- Be a Minnesota resident
- Have a family Adjusted Gross Income* (AGI) as reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Minnesota Dream Act Application below $80,000.
- Attend a Minnesota public higher education institution or Tribal College
- Not be in default on a state or federal student loan
- Be enrolled taking at least one credit
- Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards
- Have not already earned a baccalaureate degree
- Be enrolled in a program or course of study that applies to a degree, diploma, or certificate
To learn more about the North Star Promise Scholarship and application process, head over to Minnesota Office of Higher Education’s website.
