What is the Star Scholars program?
The Avelino Mills-Novoa Fellowship
The Star Scholar Program, similar to the Power of YOU program, is designed to make your dream of attending college tuition-free a possibility.
Students that fall under any of the following statuses may apply:
- DACA ( Deferred Action for childhood arrivals)
- TPS ( Temporary Protected Status)
- U Visa
- Other
Star Scholars funding covers the cost of tuition and fees after your state grants are applied (if applicable), for 2 years or up to 72 credits at Minneapolis Community and Technical College (Minneapolis College) and surrounds students with the support they need to succeed!
*If you are a U.S citizen or Legal Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) please apply to the Power of You Program.
Deadline to apply and submit all documentation is May 29, 2020. Entrance into the Star Scholar Program will be awarded based on date of application completion and merit.
Star Scholars funds do not pay for books and transportation costs.
Please note: Applicant and family data is not shared with other agencies.
Eligibility Requirements
- Graduate from high school in Spring of 2020
- Meet the family adjusted gross income cap of $75,000
- Take the Accuplacer assessment tests and score above ABE (Adult Basic Education) in Reading, Writing & Math -
OR
Take the ESL version of the Accuplacer assessment tests and score above ABE in Reading, Writing, Listening & Math. - Complete the MN Dream Act application process between January 1, 2020 and May 1, 2020 (if applicable)
- Provide proof of DACA, U-Visa Status or Temporary Protection Status (if applicable)
- Acceptance into the Star Scholars program is by invitation only.
How to Apply
- Contact Brooke Hornseth or call 612-200-5443 to discuss the application process
- Apply for the MN Dream Act
- Complete course placement. For the program you must place above ABE (Adult Basic Education) in Reading, Writing & Math. For information about course placement, visit the Course Placement webpage.
- Submit 2 letters of recommendation
- Submit High School Transcripts with final grades
You will need to complete all the steps in the Star Scholars application process prior to the May 29, 2020 deadline.
Please note: Applicant and family data is not shared with other agencies.
Application Deadline
The Star Scholars program supports as many students as possible based on student need and funds available for the program each year.
All steps below must be completed and submitted by May 29, 2020 for you to be considered for the Star Scholars program beginning in the fall, 2020.
How Will the Star Scholars Help Me Succeed in College?
- Along with awarded federal and state grant dollars, Star Scholars will enable you to attend college tuition-free
- All Power of YOU support events and the Power of YOU Student Center (T.2950) are available to Star Scholars
- As an Minneapolis College student, you have access to the Student Health Clinic
- Together with your Star Scholar advisor you will develop an academic plan and receive intensive support and guidance
- Star Scholars connects you to various Minneapolis College support services that ease your transition to college
- The program provides an opportunity to build your social capital and civic engagement by fulfilling a 10-hour per semester community service requirement
- The Star Scholars program offers guidance and support through the Equity and Inclusion division by providing the following programs:
- LUCHA (Latinos Unidos for College and Higher Achievement)
- AME (African American Empowerment Program)
- AIS (American Indian Success Program)
Acceptance Letters
You may receive an acceptance letter to Minneapolis Community and Technical College from the admissions office.
Your acceptance to the college does not mean you have been accepted into the Star Scholars program.
If you are accepted into the program, you will receive a letter outlining the next steps and an invitation to the Power of YOU/Star Scholars New Student Orientation just after June 12, 2020.
If you are not selected to participate in the Star Scholars program, you will receive a letter of decline by June 12, 2020.
Star Scholars advisors are available to assist with your application, please contact us (see below) if you need help.
Contact Us
For more information, contact:
Brooke Hornseth
Office: T.2500
Nanette Missaghi
Director of Equity and Inclusion
Office: T.2500