Power of YOU Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Power of YOU program?
A: The Power of YOU (POY) is a program of Minneapolis Community and Technical College that makes the first two years of college available tuition-free. To participate in the program, you must meet the eligibility requirements, including graduation from a participating public, charter or alternative high school in Minneapolis, Saint Paul or one of the suburban expansion schools. The program is collaboration between Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC) and Saint Paul College that provides access to a broad spectrum of academic programs and career pathways.
Q: What criteria do students need to meet in order to be eligible for the Power of YOU program?
A: You can find the requirements for eligibility on the Power of YOU page.
Q: Do I have to live in Minneapolis or Saint Paul to be eligible for the Power of YOU?
A: No. You do not need to live in Minneapolis or Saint Paul.
Q: Do I really have to be a student in a public, charter or alternative high school in the city of Minneapolis or Saint Paul to be eligible for the Power of YOU?
A: You must earn a diploma from a public high school in Minneapolis, Saint Paul or one of our suburban expansion schools listed on the Power of YOU page to be eligible for the program. Students from private high schools are not eligible.
Q: Am I eligible for the Power of YOU if I have been out of high school for a year or more?
A: No. In order to be eligible for the program, you must graduate or have been a student the same year as your fall enrollment. (i.e., graduate spring 2017, start MCTC fall 2017)
Q: If I obtain a GED (General Education Diploma/high school diploma equivalency) am I eligible for the Power of YOU?
A: No. At the time of application you must be in your senior year of high school and be expecting to receive your diploma.
Q: Do I have to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form for the Power of YOU?
A: Yes. Eligibility for the Power of YOU requires you to fill out the 2017-2018 FAFSA.
Q: If I qualify for financial aid, what costs will the Power of YOU cover?
A: Federal and State grants are first applied to your tuition and mandatory fees. The Power of YOU will cover any remaining tuition and fee expenses.
Q: Will the Power of YOU program offer anything other than financial assistance?
A: The program will offer an array of services to enable students to achieve their academic and career goals. Some of the services include individualized academic advising, career development services, peer support programs and social and cultural activities.
Q: Are there any scholarships available to complete a four year degree after completing my first two years in the Power of YOU?
A: Yes. Augsburg College offers a scholarship to POY students who successfully complete their studies at MCTC. You should work closely with your POY Advisor for assistance in the scholarship application process.
Q: How is it determined who gets accepted into the Power of YOU program?
A: The program is need-based and uses the financial aid process to identify and fund students who have a high need first. We are committed to funding all applicants based on available program funding.
Q: How will students find out if they are accepted into the Power of YOU program?
A: Students accepted into the Power of YOU program will be notified by mail no later than June 30, 2017.
Q: What additional criteria do students need to meet to remain eligible for the Power of YOU program at Minneapolis Community and Technical College?
A: In addition to meeting the general MCTC admissions criteria, these are additional Power of YOU program requirements and expectations for continued program eligibility:
- Attend a Power of YOU induction session where you will register for fall semester 2017 classes. Your invitation to the induction session will be included in your letter of acceptance to the POY program.
- Enroll in a minimum of 12-15 credits per term toward a degree, diploma or certificate
- Meet with a Power of YOU advisor at least three times each semester
- Meet the MCTC Satisfactory Academic Progress policy requirements each term
- Apply for and complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every spring semester
- Participate in 10 hours of service to the community each semester
- Attend monthly Student Success Seminars
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0
