When it comes to paying for college, finding the right financial support is key to making your goals a reality. Minnesota’s new North Star Promise is a powerful resource for students at public colleges and universities, but if your heart is set on a private college experience—especially one rooted in faith—you might wonder if the program applies to you. The short answer? It doesn’t. The North Star Promise is limited to students attending Minnesota’s public institutions.
However, some private colleges are offering similar options, such as Bethel University’s Bethel Promise Grant, which provides similar benefits for eligible students while giving them more options than just public colleges. “Choice is important when it comes to making a college decision,” says Bethel Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing Paul McGinnis. “I want every student to have the opportunity to find the best fit school for them based on their needs and desires.”
This guide will explore the North Star Promise, explain why it’s limited to public institutions, and introduce the Bethel Promise as a funding alternative for students who want a private college experience within a supportive, faith-centered community.
About the North Star Promise and Bethel Promise Grant
What is the North Star Promise?
The North Star Promise is Minnesota’s initiative to make public college more affordable for low- to middle-income families. Launched in 2024 and designed for students with financial need, the North Star Promise covers the remaining tuition and required fees for eligible Minnesota residents enrolled in public institutions—after applying all other scholarships, grants, and tuition waivers. It’s a great option for students pursuing public education.
Why private colleges aren’t included in the North Star Promise
While the North Star Promise provides essential support, it is limited to public institutions in Minnesota. This distinction can sometimes create confusion for students interested in private colleges, but understanding the program’s focus helps clarify why funds are directed specifically toward public institutions.
The program is funded through state resources designated for public higher education. That means students attending private institutions will need to look to other forms of financial aid to bridge the tuition gap. Almost all students at universities like Bethel receive vital financial aid. And it’s also important for private institutions to offer their own innovative solutions for low- to middle-income families—and that’s exactly what the Bethel Promise does.
The Bethel Promise: An alternative to North Star Promise at Bethel University
The Bethel Promise is our way of ensuring that financial barriers don’t prevent students from choosing a Christ-centered education. Much like the North Star Promise, it’s a “last-dollar” program designed to cover remaining costs after scholarships, grants, and waivers. It ensures you can focus on your education, faith, and future—not your finances. Qualified students can see their tuition reduced to as little as $2,500 per year when living on campus—or $4,500 per year for off-campus students. “The Bethel Promise allows a private, Christ-centered college experience with excellent academics to be a viable consideration for a prospective student,” McGinnis says. “While academic preparation is a key consideration, there are many other considerations, specifically at private schools, that are key to a student’s holistic development.”
Comparing Bethel Promise and North Star Promise
Key differences between Bethel Promise and North Star Promise
Though both programs aim to support students by minimizing financial obstacles, there are notable differences:
- Institution type: The North Star Promise is limited to Minnesota public institutions, while the Bethel Promise is exclusive to Bethel University.
- Program structure: Both are “last-dollar” programs, covering the remaining balance of tuition after other aid is applied, but they operate within different types of institutions—public versus private.
- Eligibility: Each program has unique income and residency criteria. The Bethel Promise specifically supports students choosing a private, faith-based education at Bethel University, whereas the North Star Promise is designed for students attending Minnesota’s public institutions.
Eligibility
Who is eligible for the North Star Promise in Minnesota?
To qualify, students must:
- Be a Minnesota resident
- Have a family adjusted gross income (AGI) under $80,000
- Be enrolled in a qualifying Minnesota public institution (such as University of Minnesota campuses, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, or Tribal Colleges)
- Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or, for undocumented students, a Minnesota Dream Act application
Who is eligible for the Bethel Promise Grant
To qualify for the Bethel Promise Grant, a student must:
- Be a Minnesota resident
- Must enroll at Bethel University
- Have a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Have a family adjusted gross income (AGI) under $90,000
- Submit a FAFASA
How to apply for Bethel Promise and North Star Promise
Application process for North Star Promise
To apply for the North Star Promise, eligible students must complete the FAFSA or, if undocumented, the Minnesota Dream Act application. No additional applications are required, and awards are granted by the student’s chosen institution based on eligibility and financial need.
Application process for Bethel Promise
For Bethel Promise, the application process is simple: Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and you’ll automatically qualify for the Bethel Promise Grant if you meet the criteria. Bethel financial aid advisors will ensure you have the support you need every step of the way.
Find your path forward
Both the North Star Promise and the Bethel Promise are designed to make higher education more accessible. The North Star Promise offers a pathway to affordable education at public institutions, while the Bethel Promise provides similar support for those seeking a private, faith-based experience at Bethel University. Each program has unique benefits and eligibility requirements, so it’s essential to explore the options and determine which aligns best with your educational goals and financial needs.
Why choose Bethel and the Bethel Promise
McGinnis says Bethel University is committed to providing a Christ-centered education that transforms lives academically, spiritually, and emotionally. And the Bethel Promise Grant makes this experience accessible to more Minnesota students, offering a unique pathway to a private, faith-driven college experience. “To know that for families that need it the most, we can be a consideration now as they evaluate their college options is very exciting,” he says.
Ready to take the next step?
Here, you’ll be shaped by faith, supported by community, and inspired by transformative learning. Connect with Bethel’s financial aid team to explore the Bethel Promise Grant and discover how we can make your education more affordable. Start your journey today—because who you’re becoming matters.
