Native American Scholarships and Grants

This article was written by Jasmine Stephenson is an avid traveler and writer on online colleges

Everyone knows that getting a higher education is expensive. However, with all the scholarships and grants available, earning a degree is an attainable goal. We are all individually responsible for how far we go in life, and what we are willing to do to realize our dreams and fulfill our goals. Looking for scholarships to provide the funding you need is a step in the right direction. Here, we've included an extensive list that has an opportunity for everyone.

American Indian College Fund

To be eligible for this scholarship, potential recipients must submit a recommendation letter, a financial needs form, an official college transcript, and proof of Native American descent or authentication of tribal membership. Students may elect to pursue a professional, undergraduate, or graduate degree in either a tribal college or a mainstream school.

Catching the Dream

Catching the dream offers three different scholarships for Native American students. The Tribal Business Management program is for those planning to work in tribal economic development after completing a degree in a business-related field. The MESBEC is designed to encourage students to major in math, engineering, science, business, education, or computers. Their leadership education program is provided to increase the number of Native American reservation teachers. The amount awarded ranges from $500 to $5,000.

American Indian Graduate Center Scholarships

The AIGC offers a variety of scholarships catering to all types of students and fields of study. Some are for future dentists and healthcare professionals, others are state specific, and one is for women only. There are options for both graduate and undergraduate students.

Young Native Writers Essay Contest

This competition is open to high school students currently involved in their tribal communities. Each student must submit an essay on a provided topic. First place winners will be awarded a $2,500 scholarship.

Bureau of Indian Education Scholarships and Grants

This governmental department lists several scholarships, fellowships, internships, and financial assistance resources. Some opportunities are related to political study, while others are for specific schools.

Tribal Priority Scholarship

This all-includive scholarship is for Hopi tribe members who are interested in pursuing a degree designated as a "priority interest" by the tribe. Juniors and seniors in high school, as well as professional students, undergraduates, graduates, and postgraduates are eligible to apply. Up to five recipients will receive a monthly stipend of $1,500, and all tuition, feeds, room and board, transportation costs, and books will be paid for.

Association on American Indian Affairs Scholarships

Students who can provide proof of at least 1/4 Native American or Alaskan Native blood are eligible to apply. This scholarship is open to high school seniors, current undergraduate students, graduate students, and doctorate students attending or planning to attend an accredited school full time.

American Indian Education Foundation Scholarships

Along with general scholarships for graduate students and undergraduate students, there are also memorial and foundation funding opportunities on offer. The undergraduate and graduate scholarship recipients will receive a maximum of $2,000 annually. Online schools are ineligible for funding.

Gates Millennium Scholars Program

This scholarship is open to Alaskan Native, Native American, and other minority students who are first-time college students pursuing a degree full time. To be eligible, applicants must have a high school GPA of 3.3 and show leadership skills in their communities or other extracurricular activities. It is a full scholarship that covers every year through to graduation.

National Indian Education Association Scholarships

The NIEA provides a long list of available scholarships for Native Americans, Alaskan Natives, and Hawaiians. The requirements and award amounts varies, from maintaining a minimum GPA to pursuing a particular course of study and attending a designated school.