Honoring cultural heritage while advancing academic goals, Scholarships for Native Americans provide essential financial support across various disciplines and degree levels. These scholarships are often awarded based on tribal affiliation, academic performance, leadership, and community involvement. Tribal organizations, federal programs, educational institutions, and private foundations may offer them. Opportunities can support undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies, helping to reduce financial barriers and increase representation in fields such as healthcare, law, education, and STEM. Many scholarships also encourage community service and the preservation of Native traditions. By opening pathways to higher education, Scholarships for Native Americans play a vital role in fostering personal growth, professional development, and long-term contributions to Native communities and beyond.
This guide helps students explore the best scholarships for Native Americans by highlighting opportunities that align with cultural identity, academic excellence, and financial need. These scholarships are designed to support Indigenous students across various higher education levels, from undergraduate to graduate programs. Many consider tribal affiliation, leadership potential, and community involvement. By easing the financial burden of college, these awards encourage greater access to education, foster personal and professional growth, and strengthen connections to Native heritage. With the right resources, students can find meaningful support tailored to their unique backgrounds and aspirations.
Here is a list of the best Scholarships for Native Americans:
Students should begin by identifying scholarships for Native Americans that align with their academic interests, heritage, and financial needs. Exploring opportunities from tribal organizations, national nonprofits, and professional groups is essential. Students should gather key materials early—transcripts, essays, and reference letters—to ensure a smooth application process. Customizing each application to reflect the scholarship’s specific goals shows dedication and increases competitiveness. Tracking important deadlines helps avoid missed opportunities. Applying to a range of scholarships broadens access to funding. A thoughtful, organized approach not only boosts the likelihood of receiving awards but also helps reduce future reliance on loans or other financial aid. Here are some key tips to simplify the application process:
Here is a detailed list of the top 15 Scholarships for Native Americans:
Scholarship | Description | Application Deadline | Award/Amount |
---|---|---|---|
American Indian College Fund Scholarships | The American Indian College Fund offers scholarships to American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing certificate, undergraduate, or graduate degrees at tribal colleges or accredited nonprofit institutions. With one annual application, students are considered for multiple opportunities. The College Fund supports various disciplines and works to increase access to higher education while honoring Native culture and identity. Tribal College and University (TCU) students are eligible for all available scholarships the organization manages. | Varies | $2000 to $3000 |
Udall Foundation Scholarships | The Udall Foundation Scholarship supports students committed to leadership in environmental fields, Tribal public policy, or Native health care. This prestigious award recognizes undergraduates whose academic and career goals align with the values of Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall. Applicants undergo a competitive internal nomination process at their institutions. Selected scholars participate in a multiday Scholar Orientation, building connections with fellow changemakers dedicated to public service, sustainability, and Native self-determination across the United States. | Varies | $7000 |
AISES Scholarship Program | The AISES Scholarship Program supports American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and First Nations students pursuing degrees in STEM. By offering scholarships funded through partnerships and donors, AISES fosters academic achievement and promotes Indigenous representation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The program emphasizes education as a pathway to empowerment and leadership, requiring applicants to demonstrate tribal affiliation, AISES membership, and enrollment in an accredited institution. Multiple scholarships are available to meet diverse academic and career goals. | Varies | Varies |
The Gates Millennium Scholars Program | The Gates Millennium Scholars Program was created to develop a diverse generation of future leaders by supporting students from historically underrepresented backgrounds. Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the program assists African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American, and Hispanic American students in completing undergraduate degrees in any field. Scholars may also pursue graduate studies in select disciplines. The program fosters educational access and leadership development to strengthen America’s democratic and economic future. | Varies | Varies |
American Indian Scholarships | The American Indian Services (AIS) Scholarship supports Native American and Alaska Native undergraduate students pursuing higher education. Designed to help with college costs, the scholarship assists students in maintaining enrollment and working toward graduation. Funds are sent directly to the student’s school based on financial need. Applicants must submit required documents, complete an online application, and provide a thank you letter if selected. The program aims to increase access and retention in higher education for Native students. | Varies | Varies |
The Indian Scholarship Fund of Washington | The Indian Scholarship Fund of Washington supports students with financial needs who have strong cultural ties to American Indian communities in the state. Offered through the American Indian Endowed Scholarship (AIES), the program is open to students attending public and participating private colleges in Washington. While preference is given to upper-division and graduate-level applicants, all eligible students are considered. The scholarship encourages recipients to use their education to serve and uplift tribal communities in Washington. | Varies | $500 to $2000 |
The Native American Bar Association Scholarship | The Native American Bar Association Scholarship supports Native American law students demonstrating academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to serving Indigenous communities. Administered by various regional and national Native American bar associations, the scholarship aims to increase Native representation within the legal profession. Awards vary by chapter and may consider financial need, community involvement, and career goals. Recipients are typically enrolled in accredited law programs and are actively involved in tribal or legal advocacy initiatives. | Varies | Varies |
Association on American Indian Affairs (AAIA) Scholarships | The Association on American Indian Affairs (AAIA) Scholarships, established in 1947, are the nation’s longest-running Native scholarship program. They support undergraduate and graduate students from federally and non-federally recognized Nations enrolled full-time at accredited institutions. The program fosters academic success and cultural commitment by offering mentorship, internships, and networking opportunities. A special CBIKS partnership supports students in Indigenous Knowledge and science-related fields. The AAIA empowers Native scholars dedicated to serving their Tribal Nations and communities. | Varies | Varies |
Indigenous Journalists Associaltion Scholarships | The Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA) offers scholarships to support Indigenous and Pacific Islander students pursuing careers in journalism. In partnership with the Asian American Journalists Association’s Pacific Islander Task Force, these awards aim to increase representation, foster cultural storytelling, and empower emerging voices in news media. Recipients often show dedication to community-centered reporting and media equity. The scholarship reflects IJA’s mission to elevate Indigenous perspectives and strengthen diversity across the journalism industry. | Varies | Varies |
Choctaw Nation Higher Education Program | The Choctaw Nation Higher Education Program offers financial assistance to eligible Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma tribal members enrolled in accredited colleges or universities. Open to both high school and college students, the program supports part-time and full-time enrollment across associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree levels. Applicants must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA and submit an online application with the required documentation each semester. The program encourages academic progress while fostering educational opportunities for tribal citizens. | Varies | Varies |
Society for American Archaeology Native American Scholarships | The Society for American Archaeology Native American Scholarships support Indigenous students pursuing studies in archaeology and museum studies. Established to foster collaboration between Native communities and archaeologists, the program offers multiple competitive awards for undergraduate, graduate, and professional training. Open to Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and Indigenous Pacific Islander applicants, these scholarships recognize academic potential, cultural commitment, and future contributions to the field. Funding is made possible through donations, silent auctions, and external grants. | Varies | Varies |
Society of American Indian Dentists (SAID) Scholarships | The Society of American Indian Dentists (SAID) offers scholarships and awards to support American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing careers in dentistry. Opportunities include the DAT Prep Program for pre-dental students, travel stipends to the SAID annual conference, and academic awards such as the George Blue Spruce Award for Student Excellence. In partnership with Crest-OralB and Colgate, additional scholarships assist dental students and those in oral health-related graduate or post-baccalaureate programs. | February annually | Varies |
Cobell Scholarship | The Cobell Scholarship, named after Elouise Cobell, supports Native American students pursuing post-secondary education. Open to enrolled members of U.S. federally recognized tribes, applicants must be degree-seeking and enrolled full-time in an accredited institution. The merit-based scholarship involves a thorough application process, which includes submitting personal statements and verifying tribal enrollment and academic status. This program aims to assist students in achieving their educational goals and fostering success in higher education. | Varies | Varies |
Catching the Dream Scholarship | Catching the Dream, founded in 1986, aims to enhance the quality of life in Native American communities by supporting higher education for Native students. The organization prioritizes students with strong academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to returning to their communities. Scholarships are available for various fields, focusing on critical areas like science, engineering, and business. Catching the Dream guarantees funding for four years and works to prepare students for success in college and beyond. | Varies | Varies |
Salish Kootenai College Tribal Scholarships | Salish Kootenai College (SKC) offers a range of scholarships to promote academic excellence among students. These include institutional and non-institutional opportunities such as the American Indian College Fund, SKC Foundation, and employee scholarships. Scholarships are available based on financial need, merit, and other criteria. Students must be full-time, maintain a minimum GPA, and demonstrate financial need to be eligible. SKC encourages all students to apply and hosts workshops to assist with scholarship applications. | Varies | Varies |
Here are a few more ways students can fund their program:
Scholarships provide financial support to students based on merit, need, or specific criteria. They help reduce the cost of education and are offered by schools, organizations, and private entities. Scholarships can be applied for at various levels, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies, making higher education more accessible for eligible students.
Grants are financial awards to individuals or organizations to support specific projects, research, or educational pursuits. Unlike loans, grants do not require repayment. They are often offered by government agencies, foundations, or institutions based on specific eligibility criteria, such as academic achievements, community impact, or project-related needs.
Student loans are financial aid options that allow students to borrow money for their education, which must be repaid with interest. They can be federal or private loans, each with varying terms, interest rates, and repayment options. Federal loans often offer more flexible terms, including income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness programs.
Graduate assistantships are positions universities offer where graduate students work part-time in exchange for financial support, such as a stipend or tuition remission. Duties may include teaching, research, or administrative tasks. These positions provide valuable experience, help offset education costs, and often allow students to focus on their studies while gaining professional skills.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required to determine federal financial aid eligibility, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. It collects financial information about the student and their family to assess the expected family contribution (EFC) and help colleges determine the aid package offered.
Staying informed and connected is essential for Native American graduates pursuing advanced degrees. Access to specialized resources can support academic and professional growth. Engaging with cultural, educational, and professional organizations helps graduates remain updated on industry trends, scholarships, and emerging opportunities. These associations also offer invaluable opportunities to network with peers and established professionals with similar experiences and goals. Participation fosters a strong sense of community, enhances visibility in professional settings, and promotes continuous learning. Being active in such circles contributes significantly to long-term success and personal empowerment in any chosen field. Here are a few resources graduates can explore:
Native Knowledge 360° (by Smithsonian NMAI)
Native Knowledge 360° (NK360°) is an educational initiative by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. It provides resources that challenge common narratives and promotes a more complete understanding of Native American histories and cultures. NK360° offers digital lessons, classroom materials, and teacher training to integrate Indigenous perspectives into education. The program emphasizes critical thinking, cultural understanding, and accuracy in teaching about Native peoples past and present, supporting inclusive, respectful learning environments.
Native American Financial Services Association (NAFSA)
The Native American Financial Services Association (NAFSA) advocates for tribal sovereignty and economic self-determination through e-commerce and financial services. Representing tribally owned and operated businesses, NAFSA supports regulatory frameworks that respect tribal governance and promote responsible lending practices. The organization educates policymakers, engages in legislative advocacy, and ensures access to capital for Native communities. Through collaboration and outreach, NAFSA advances economic development and protects the sovereign rights of Native American tribes.
Indigenous Journalists Associaltion
The Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA) empowers Indigenous voices in media through advocacy, professional development, and community support. Committed to accurate representation and truth in journalism, IJA fosters a strong network of Indigenous journalists, including Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and First Nations citizens. The organization offers training, mentorship, and resources to enhance career growth while promoting inclusivity. IJA membership unites professionals dedicated to advancing Indigenous perspectives in the news and media industries.
Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)
The Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) is dedicated to fostering the success of underrepresented minorities in STEM. Through leadership training, professional development, and community building, SACNAS supports students and professionals at all career stages. The organization hosts an annual conference, offers mentorship programs, and promotes diversity in scientific fields. SACNAS empowers its members to excel in STEM while embracing their cultural identities and advancing inclusive scientific excellence.
Tribal College Journal of American Indian Higher Education
The Tribal College Journal of American Indian Higher Education is a nonprofit media organization under AIHEC, offering a vital platform for American Indian and Alaska Native higher education. Established in 1989, it provides a quarterly magazine, website, and e-newsletters that reflect the voices and visions of tribal college leaders, faculty, staff, and students. With editorial independence and award-winning content, the journal fosters dialogue, showcases achievements, and supports the evolving missions of tribal colleges and universities.
Native American scholarships are generally open to students who are enrolled members of federally or state-recognized tribes. Applicants must often provide proof of tribal affiliation, meet academic requirements, and pursue education at accredited institutions. Eligibility may vary by scholarship, including factors like financial need, field of study, or location.