Native American Scholarships and Grants for 2025 and 2026

Are There Scholarships for Native American Students?

Yes, many scholarships and grants are specifically available for Native American students. These awards are offered by tribal organizations, federal and state programs, private foundations, and universities to support Native students in pursuing higher education and honoring their cultural heritage.

What Is the Cobell Scholarship?

The Cobell Scholarship, managed by Indigenous Education, Inc., is a need-based and merit-based award for Native American and Alaska Native students. Eligibility requirements include:

• Being an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.
• Enrolling in a full-time undergraduate, graduate, or vocational program.
• Demonstrating academic achievement and financial need.

Awards vary based on educational level and financial need.

What Is the American Indian College Fund?

The American Indian College Fund provides scholarships for Native American students attending tribal colleges, universities, or other accredited institutions. Key details include:

• Offering both merit-based and need-based scholarships.
• Eligibility for undergraduate and graduate students who are tribal members or descendants.
• Scholarship amounts ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 annually.

The College Fund also offers resources for academic and career success.

What Is the Tribal Higher Education Grant?

The Tribal Higher Education Grant (THEG) is a federal program supporting Native American students. Eligibility includes:

• Being an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.
• Demonstrating financial need through FAFSA.
• Attending an accredited institution.

Grant amounts vary and are typically managed by individual tribes, so students should contact their tribal education offices for details.

Are There Scholarships for Native American Women?

Yes, scholarships specifically for Native American women include:

• American Indian Graduate Center (AIGC) Scholarships: Awards for Native women pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees.
• Patsy Takemoto Mink Foundation Scholarship: Supports low-income women of color, including Native American women.

These scholarships aim to empower Native women in education and leadership roles.

What Is the Native Vision Scholarship?

The Native Vision Scholarship supports Native American high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Eligibility requirements include:

• Being an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.
• Participating in extracurricular or community service activities.
• Submitting an essay and recommendation letters.

Awards typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 annually.

What Is the Udall Undergraduate Scholarship?

The Udall Undergraduate Scholarship is awarded to Native American students pursuing careers in tribal public policy, Native health care, or environmental studies. Eligibility includes:

• Being an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe or an Alaska Native village.
• Demonstrating commitment to Native American issues and leadership potential.
• Maintaining a strong academic record.

Recipients receive up to $7,000, along with leadership training opportunities.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for Native American Students?

Yes, several corporations and organizations offer scholarships for Native American students. Examples include:

• Intel Native American Scholarship: Supports students pursuing STEM degrees with leadership potential.
• Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship: Provides funding for Native students who are the first in their family to attend college.
• American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) Scholarships: Awards for Native students in science, technology, engineering, and math fields.

These scholarships often include mentorship and career development opportunities.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Native American Students?

Many universities offer scholarships tailored to Native American students, such as:

• Arizona State University Native American Scholars Program: Provides funding and resources for Native students attending ASU.
• University of Minnesota Morris American Indian Tuition Waiver: Offers free tuition for Native students with tribal enrollment or ancestry.
• University of New Mexico Native American Programs: Provides scholarships and academic support for Native students.

Check with your school’s financial aid office or Native American programs office for additional opportunities.

How to Apply for Native American Scholarships?

To apply for scholarships and grants for Native American students:

• Verify Tribal Enrollment: Many scholarships require proof of enrollment in a federally recognized tribe or documentation of Native ancestry.
• Complete the FAFSA: Demonstrating financial need is essential for many need-based scholarships.
• Submit Essays: Highlight your cultural background, career goals, and contributions to your community.
• Gather Recommendations: Ask mentors, teachers, or tribal leaders for letters of recommendation.

Applying to multiple scholarships increases your chances of securing funding for your education.

Myth: Native American Scholarships Are Only for Students Living on Reservations

Fact: Many scholarships are available to Native American students regardless of where they live. While some awards target students on reservations, many are open to tribal members attending school anywhere in the U.S.