Minnesota Office of Higher Education

The Minnesota Office of Higher Education (OHE) is a cabinet-level state agency that connects students and families with financial aid programs, information, and resources to help them gain access to postsecondary education. The agency collaborates with public, private, and tribal colleges and universities to enhance the distribution and effectiveness of need-based aid and competitive grant programs and provides the public with access to cutting-edge agency research products to support innovation and success. The Minnesota State Grant Program is the largest financial aid program administered by OHE, awarding more than $210 million in need-based grants to Minnesota residents attending eligible colleges, universities and career schools in Minnesota. The agency oversees other state scholarship programs, tuition reciprocity programs, a student loan program, Minnesota's 529 College Savings Plan, licensing, and an early college awareness program and initiatives for youth. Inter-agency work with the Minnesota Department of Education helps E-12 students successfully transition to postsecondary education. Collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and the Department of Labor and Industry supports state businesses and industry by aligning efforts to build and retain a well-trained and educated workforce and create opportunities for job seekers. Mission To support the pursuit and completion of a higher education credential by every Minnesotan, regardless of race, gender, or socio-economic status, in order to enhance our democracy, the State's economic vitality, and individual quality of life. Vision Minnesota is the best state in the country for children to grow up in – those of all races, ethnicities, religions, economic statuses, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, and zip codes.