The Maroon and Gold Scholarship—named for Northern State University's official colors—is designed to provide financial assistance to post-traditional (non-traditional) students—including adult learners returning to college, transfer students, and other Northern students who meet eligibility requirements—as they begin their educational journey at NSU.

This pilot scholarship program for Fall 2026 makes quality higher education more accessible to students who are returning to school or transferring from another institution.

• $1,000 One-Time Award ($500 per semester for fall and spring)

Scholarship Overview

• Award Amount: $1,000 total ($500 fall, $500 spring)
• Eligibility Period: Fall 2026 students
• Application Process: Automatic—no separate application needed
• Deadline: No deadline—awarded on an ongoing basis

Am I Eligible?

To qualify for the Maroon and Gold Scholarship, you must:

• Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
• Meet Northern's college entrance requirements
• Be accepted to Northern State University for Fall 2026
• Enroll in at least 6 credits (half-time status) per semester
• Be pursuing an undergraduate (associate or bachelor's) degree program at Northern 

Note: Students who qualify for this scholarship are not eligible for the WolfPACT scholarship. However, recipients may receive other Northern scholarships in addition to the Maroon and Gold Scholarship.

How to Apply

• No application necessary! When you apply to Northern State University and complete your FAFSA, you are automatically considered for the Maroon and Gold Scholarship.

Here's how it works:

1. Apply for admission to Northern State University for Fall 2026
2. Be pursuing an undergraduate (associate or bachelor's) degree program at Northern -
3. Complete the FAFSA
4. If you meet all eligibility requirements, Northern will automatically award you the scholarship
5. Northern will notify you of your scholarship award

All eligible students who meet the criteria will automatically receive the award. There is no application form, no essay, and no selection process.

How the Scholarship Works

The scholarship is split equally between two semesters and credited directly to your student account:

• First Semester (Fall 2026): $500 credited to your account
• Second Semester (Spring 2027): $500 credited to your account

Scholarship funds can be used toward tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.

Important Information

• Transfer Students: Transfer students are eligible if they meet Northern's college entrance requirements
• Program Availability: Open to undergraduate students in associate and bachelor's degree programs at Northern (not available for graduate students)
• Funding: Guaranteed for all eligible students in this year-one pilot program

Questions?

For questions about the Maroon and Gold Scholarship or your eligibility, please contact:

Northern State University Financial Aid Office
Phone: (605) 626-2640
Email: finaid@northern.edu