State Para-to-Teacher Program (PTP)
North Dakota Department of Public Instruction
Tuition scholarship of up to $20,000 for paraprofessionals working in ND schools to earn a bachelor's degree and teaching license.
- How much
- Up to $20,000 total (max $380 per credit for 2026-27)
- Who qualifies
- Paraprofessional employed in a North Dakota school
- Must pursue an approved bachelor's/licensure pathway at an approved ND educator preparation provider; should intend to remain in ND as a licensed teacher.
- For undergrads, adults going back to school
- For education students
- When to apply
- Open now · due June 30, 2027 First come, first served until funds are depleted or June 30, 2027 (2025-27 biennium funding).
- How to apply
- Apply to NDDPI with the PTP application and a letter of recommendation from your school administrator, choosing an approved university and pathway
- Approved first come, first served until funds run out or June 30, 2027
- What you'll need
- state application + recommendation
- Last checked
- October 5, 2026, against the official page (nd.gov) and page 2
The details
Funded with $3 million by the 2025 Legislature. Paraprofessionals working in an ND school can get tuition scholarships at ten approved educator preparation providers, in approved pathways only. Paid to the university per credit (max $380 per credit for Fall 2026-Spring 2027; students pay any higher tuition), never above tuition charges, up to $20,000 per student. Now a first-dollar award, so other aid can go toward room, board and books. Not for master's degrees.
More money from North Dakota
- North Dakota State GrantUp to $1,375 per semester or $917 per quarter (2026-27)
- North Dakota Scholarship$6,000 total: $750 per semester, $500 per quarter, clock-hour term or apprenticeship term
- Dual-Credit Tuition Scholarship$250 (one course), $500 (two), $750 (three or more); one-time
- North Dakota Scholars ProgramFull undergraduate tuition (NDUS rate at 15 credits per semester)
- Nursing Education Scholarship (NES) ProgramNot published (one-time award per degree level)
Keep looking
- Answer a few questions to see every program you qualify for
- Nearby states: Minnesota, Montana, South Dakota
- Federal aid and national scholarships (open to students in any state)
- The FAFSA in plain English (2027-28)
- Should I file the FAFSA if I don't think I'll qualify?
- FAFSA deadlines by state (2027-28)
- The FAFSA for parents: what you need to do
- How to save on textbooks: free, rented and cheaper options
We list programs; we don't decide who gets them. Always check the official page before you apply. Spot something wrong? Tell us.