Missouri’s public safety professionals keep our communities safe every day. Now the State of Missouri is investing in them and their families through the new Public Safety Recruitment and Retention Act Scholarship. This program, administered by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD), is designed to cover tuition and required fees for eligible public safety personnel and their dependent children at Missouri’s public and independent colleges and universities — including Missouri State University.

The scholarship is scheduled to launch August 28, 2025. Eligible applicants include law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and other qualifying personnel who meet the state’s service requirements, as well as their dependent children. Applicants must be Missouri residents, satisfy institutional admission standards, and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The online application will be available through the state’s Student Financial Aid Portal.

MSU’s Risk-Free Guarantee for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026

Because the state is still finalizing program details, Missouri State University has created a plan that lets you move forward with confidence. Our MSU Guarantee allows students who are not currently enrolled at Missouri State University, but expect to qualify for the scholarship, to enroll for Fall 2025 or Spring 2026 risk-free.

If you enroll believing you qualify but later the state determines you are ineligible, you may choose one of these options:

• Withdraw after the add/drop period with no financial penalty.
• Receive a one-time $1,000 MSU scholarship toward Fall 2025 or Spring 2026 tuition and fees.
• Receive an exception to qualify for the MoState Access Award if you meet all other criteria.

This guarantee means you don’t have to wait for final state approval to start your degree!

You can apply now and register knowing that Missouri State is ready to support you.

Next Steps

We encourage all eligible public safety personnel and their families to begin preparing now: complete your FAFSA, gather documentation of service, and explore the academic programs that fit your goals. Contact an Admissions staff member to get started!

Your service keeps Missouri strong. Let Missouri State help you turn that dedication into a degree.

Go Bears! 🐻✨