Grants comprise the largest portion of most Carleton aid awards. They can be a combination of the grants described below. This type of aid does not need to be repaid; it is gift aid. The vast majority of our grants and scholarship are need-based, rather than merit-based; we feel this is a more equitable distribution of our financial aid resources, since all admitted students demonstrate a high degree of merit.
Available Grants and Scholarships
Carleton Grants
Our largest source of aid. During the 2020–21 year, Carleton students received over $48 million from the college. These grants are allocated based on demonstrated family need.
National Merit and National Hispanic Recognition Scholarships
Those selected will receive $2,000 per year. Our only merit-based scholarships.
Fritch Scholarships
Designated for middle-income students from a U.S. city or metropolitan area of fewer than 200,000 people. They are awarded each school year on a competitive basis and are renewable for three additional years beyond the student’s first year at Carleton. $10,000 per year for a total of $40,000.
Strong Scholarship
Designated for middle-income families from urban areas. They are awarded on a competitive basis and are renewable for three additional years beyond the student’s first year at Carleton. $10,000 per year for a total of $40,000.
Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG) & Federal Pell Grant
Application for these programs is made by completing the FAFSA. Visit the U.S. Department of Education Federal Student Aid Office for more information.
Minnesota State Grant Program
This is a need-based grant for Minnesota residents. You apply for it by completing the FAFSA.
Outside scholarships
Many Carleton students receive scholarships from businesses, national competitions, and other sources. Your aid amount will remain the same; these scholarships first reduce the loan portion of your aid package, then the student employment amount. We encourage students to explore external scholarship opportunities.