RAISE: Free College.
Raise your wage. Your job prospects. Your knowledge. Education is the key to opportunities - a new job, a career change, a promotion. But education often comes with expenses that make it unattainable for many. We believe in a bright, legendary future, with opportunity for all to achieve their educational goals. Through the Retraining, Academic Instruction, and Skills Enhancement (RAISE) initiative, we aim to provide education to all, regardless of cost.
RAISE Offerings
Individual courses for skill-building or college credit are available to those who live in Douglas County, MN and meet eligibility requirements. Academic programs may also be available to eligible individuals.
Some of our most popular offerings:
Skill-building courses:
- Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- CDL A or B
- CDL Endorsements
- Medication Aide
College credit course areas:
- Mathematics
- Composition
- Anatomy & Physiology
- History
Degree programs:
- Practical Nursing
- Business/Accounting
- Retail Management
- Cybersecurity
- Medical Coding
Download the PDF below or Apply Now to browse all current offerings.
| Title | Download Link |
|---|---|
| Alexandria College RAISE Current Offerings | Download Alexandria College RAISE Current Offerings Document pdf |
Limit of one skill-building course or credit course offering per student per semester. All credit courses count toward a certificate, diploma, or degree. Must meet eligibility requirements.
Options for Minnesotans outside Douglas County
Tuition-free enrollment in select academic programs may be available to eligible Minnesotans through the Minnesota Future Together Grants program, offered by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education.
RAISE Eligibility
Eligibility for Award Seekers
Academic program
- Existing resident of Douglas County, MN before enrollment
- Graduated high school or GED recipient prior to January 1, 2020
- Unemployed or Underemployed (Applicant adjusted gross income under $50,000 or $100,000 if married filing jointly)
- Maintain 2.0 GPA each semester to maintain eligibility
- Maintain 3 year graduation plan
- Complete FAFSA
- Must be accepted into academic program by census date of semester seeking funding
- Must make application for funding by census date of semester seeking funding
- Not in default on a federal or state student loan or, if in default, has regained eligibility for federal or state student aid
- Meet Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) on the date of disbursement (cumulative 2.0 GPA and 66.67% completion rate)
- Must complete and resolve any federal verification, conflicting information, and "C " codes
- Students must reapply annually for this funding
Eligibility for Non-Award Seekers
One credit course or skill-based course per semester
- Existing resident of Douglas County, MN before enrollment
- Graduated high school or GED recipient prior to January 1, 2020
- Unemployed or Underemployed (Applicant adjusted gross income under $50,000 or $100,000 if married filing jointly)
- Limited to one course offering per semester
- Pass or letter C to maintain eligibility
Verification of Eligibility:
- Documentation will be required to verify your eligibility. This could include, but not limited to:
- Unemployment insurance benefits statement
- Layoff notice
- Most recent federal tax return or W-2(s) for non-tax filers
- Residency documentation (utility bill, driver's license)
Related Expenditures
Related expenditures may be covered under RAISE grants. This could include course-required books, technology rentals, supplies, tools, uniforms, or other related items directly applicable to course work. This DOES NOT include housing, daycare, travel, or personal expenses.
Funding Partners
With the support of the State of Minnesota Office of Higher Education, Minnesota State System of Colleges and Universities, and Douglas County, we're pleased to offer grants to students in a variety of circumstances, making educational opportunities free for many of the students we serve.
