If you spent any time in foster care after age 13, you might have significant educational benefits available to you. Getting your tuition covered is a huge first step, but being a student is about more than just paying the bills.

The Minnesota Fostering Independence Higher Education Grant (FIG) can pay for most or all of your college costs—including tuition, fees, and books. If funds remain, it can even cover housing, food, transportation, and other living expenses.

At Normandale, we partnered with Foster Advocates to design the Fostering College Connections (FCC) program to walk with you from the moment you’re considering college through your entire time here. Whether you are receiving the FIG grant or Education and Training Vouchers (ETV), the FCC program is here to ensure you have the direct financial, academic, and personal support you need to navigate college life. You don’t have to do this alone.

We provide a dedicated point of contact to help you problem-solve and stay on track. Whether it's a quick question or a major hurdle, we are here to:

• Keep You Connected: We’ll let you know about campus events and opportunities so you’re a part of the Normandale community, not just a face in the crowd.
• Navigate the System: College can be confusing. We help you find exactly who you need to talk to in Financial Aid, Records, Advising, etc.
• Holistic Support: We look at the big picture—if you’re struggling with things outside of class, we’ll help you find the right resources to get back on steady ground.

How to apply for FIG or ETV

If you are ready to get started, follow these steps to secure your funding:

1. Complete your FAFSA or MN Dream Act application.
2. List Normandale Community College on the FAFSA.
3. Reach out to us to get connected to the FCC community!

For more technical details on the grant itself, you can visit the Minnesota Office of Higher Education.

Normandale has a variety of resources to help get you started and keep you going!