The higher education funding bill enacted in 2007 contained a provision requiring the Minnesota Office of Higher Education to conduct an analysis and evaluation of the State Grant program. Analysis focused on the role of the program in promoting affordable access to higher education in Minnesota, including promoting access for students traditionally underrepresented in higher education. Evaluation of the components underlying State Grant policy and the formula used in awarding grants was completed and included examination of the feasibility of expanding eligibility to select groups.
The Office of Higher Education conducted a review of the Minnesota State Grant program, including an assessment of how state grants are calculated. As part of the review process, the agency gathered public input and conducted limited analyses to assess the program's responsiveness to changing economic conditions and its effectiveness in encouraging qualified disadvantaged students to attend college.