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Leah Bittner

“The SMSU RN to BSN Program does not have you take a set amount of credits each semester. This flexible scheduling was perfect for me as it allowed me to vary the amount of credits I took each semester. I would have struggled without that flexibility as I am a non-traditional student who is also a wife, mother of four, and worked full time while completing my degree. This program is designed to fit into your life, whether you want to be a full-time or part-time student.”

Leah Bittner, '22 Alum
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Paying for Grad School

Instate Tuition for all students!

At Southwest Minnesota State University, making your education affordable is important to us!  We strive to ensure that paying for college makes sense while you are here, and when you are done.  

Below you will find information about:

Check out the information below for more information about how you can finance your education at SMSU!

Cost of Attendance

The annual cost of attendance can be seen in the Estimated Total Cost panel on this page. Some key things to keep in mind:

  • SMSU offers in-state tuition to nearly everyone. No out-state rates. One affordable rate. One incredible education. Infinite opportunity. Reciprocity rates may apply.

    *Reciprocity rates may apply to students from ND, SD, IA, WI, MSEP States and Manitoba for the upcoming academic year. 

  • Housing and Food includes your residence hall room and your meal plan cost.

  • The housing cost is based on a double occupancy room with a roommate in the traditional residence hall.  For more information about room types and costs, please visit our Residence Life homepage.

  • The meal plan cost is based on our "traditional" meal plan of 14 meals per week combined with $150 Dining Dollars. 

Estimated Total Cost

FOR 2023-24

Scholarships at SMSU

Southwest Minnesota State University offers such a variety of scholarships and financial aid options for graduate students! Scholarships like the district partner scholarships, graduate loyalty scholarship, and program-specific scholarships can make a significant difference in managing the cost of education. Plus, the graduate assistantship program is a fantastic opportunity for hands-on experience while studying.

 

 

 

FAFSA Information

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available to U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens to assist them in paying for their college education.  The application process is the same for traditional, non-traditional, dependent and independent applicants.

SMSU FAFSA Code is: 002375 

How do I apply?

  1. Apply for your Federal Student Aid ID - Each student must apply for a FSA ID. The FSA ID allows users to electronically access personal information on Federal Student Aid websites as well as electronically sign a FAFSA. https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch

  2. Complete the FAFSA - Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the appropriate year. We recommend that you print out the Pre-Application Worksheet. Use this worksheet to assist you in collecting information for the online FAFSA Application.

For other FAFSA filing options, deadline information, and more complete directions, please visit https://studentaid.gov/

 

FAQ's

Q: Do I need to fill out the FAFSA every year...?

Yes. You need to fill out a FAFSA for the academic year for which you would like to receive federal financial aid. Complete the FAFSA online at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa

Q: I don't know where I want to go to college. Should I wait until decide to apply for Financial Aid?

NO! On the FAFSA you may list up to 5 different institutions you would like to receive your FAFSA information. Just think of your top 5 choices and get the FAFSA done. You may also add or remove schools from your list at a later date.

 

Types of Aid

Grants

Grants are considered to be gift aid or funds awarded to students which are repaid. Federal grant programs include -- Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, and Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant.

Minnesota grant programs include: Minnesota State Grant MN GI Bill, Postsecondary Child Care Grant, Safety Officer Survivor's Grant, and the Minnesota Dream Act.

 

Regular Pay

Students can work on-campus through regular student employment programs. A list of employment opportunities is available on the Financial Aid website. Students must locate their own job, are paid bi-weekly and work an average of 10 hours per week.

Loans

A loan is a type of financial aid that must be repaid. There are several different loan programs. Some require payments while the student is enrolled; others do not. The interest rates vary from 3.4% to 12%.

Last Modified: 4/22/25 10:11 AM | Website Feedback