Walz budget proposal would eliminate college application fees, expand financial aid for students

Minnesota students could file college applications for free and receive more financial aid if state lawmakers support a slew of higher education proposals included in Gov. Tim Walz's spending plan.

Walz's proposed supplemental budget would establish a college application fee waiver program, expand some state grant programs, fund new scholarships at the University of Minnesota and freeze tuition at colleges and universities in the Minnesota State system, among other things.

"This pandemic has only exacerbated the need for further support for our students in our higher ed institutions in Minnesota," Minnesota Higher Education Commissioner Dennis Olson said during a recent news conference with Walz. "The governor's budget will bolster efforts currently in place that we know are absolutely working while making important new investments as well."

https://www.startribune.com/walz-budget-proposal-would-eliminate-college-application-fees-expand-financial-aid-for-students/600143840/