There are several programs that allow students to pay reduced tuition at colleges in the Midwest.

Reciprocity Program with South Dakota, North Dakota, Wisconsin and Iowa

Reciprocity is the agreement that Minnesota has with neighboring states to provide lower tuition for attending public colleges and universities in those states. Typically, non-resident admission fees and tuition are reduced (or eliminated) if you're a reciprocity student.

Minnesota has reciprocity agreements with Wisconsin, North Dakota, and South Dakota. It also has an agreement with the Canadian province of Manitoba, and a limited agreement with the Iowa Lakes Community College in Iowa.

Minnesota residents wishing to apply for reciprocity for North Dakota, South Dakota or Wisconsin can now apply on line.  Just go to the Minnesota State Higher Education Services Office (MHESO).  You can also print out an application from this website.

The application is for the reciprocity program; it is not an application for admission to the school you want to attend.  Students must also apply for admission to the eligible school before they are eligible for reciprocity tuition under the reciprocity program.

The Midwest Exchange Program (MSEP)

The Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP) was established by the Midwestern Higher Education Compact to increase interstate educational opportunities in its member states.  The program enables residents of Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska and North Dakota, to enroll in the institutions and programs designated at reduced tuition levels.

Brochures listing eligible colleges, universities, and programs of study are distributed to high schools, and are available from the Services Office or online at the Midwestern Higher Education Commission.  General questions may also be addressed to:

Jennifer Dahlquist, Program Officer

Midwestern Higher Education Compact

Midwest Student Exchange Program

1300 South Second Street, Suite 130

Minneapolis, MN 55454-1079

Phone:  (612) 626-1602

Fax:      (612) 626-8290

E-mail:  jsenniferd@mhec.org