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Native American scholarships: How to find and apply
Find scholarships for Native American students that can help you pay for college.
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Native American scholarships
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Key takeaways about Native American scholarships
- Native American scholarships can help reduce college costs and honor cultural heritage.
- Start early—many deadlines hit before senior year ends.
- Look for tribal, federal, and nonprofit programs for Native students.
- Avoid common mistakes like missing eligibility details or deadlines.
- Use tools like Scholly and Scout College Search to find quick wins.
What are Native American scholarships and why do they matter?
Native American scholarships are designed to support students who identify as American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian. These awards help make college more affordable while celebrating your heritage and achievements. They can also connect you with networks and resources that support your success.
For a quick refresher on scholarship basics, check out what a scholarship is.
How to apply for Native American scholarships
Applying for Native American scholarships takes planning. Here’s how to make it easier:
- Verify tribal affiliation: Many scholarships require proof of enrollment or descent.
- Gather your docs early: Transcripts, recommendation letters, and essays take time.
- Highlight your story: Share your goals and how your heritage shapes your future.
Want more tips? See more common scholarship requirements.
Where to look for Native American scholarships
Start with these sources:
- Tribal organizations: Many tribes offer scholarships for enrolled members.
- Federal programs: Check Bureau of Indian Education and FAFSA® for aid options.
- Nonprofits and foundations: Groups like American Indian College Fund provide major awards.
- Scholarship search tools: Use Scholly Scholarships to match with opportunities fast.
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Find scholarships that are right for you
Easily search through thousands of college scholarships based on your background, major, state you live in, and more.
Hot tip! Smaller scholarships may have less competition, increasing your odds of winning.
Top Native American scholarships
While programs change every year, here are some well-known options:
- American Indian College Fund Scholarships
- Bureau of Indian Education Higher Education Grant Program
- Native Forward Scholars Fund
- Tribal-specific scholarships (check your tribe’s education office)
Quick wins for Native American students
Want better odds? Try these:
- Apply for local tribal scholarships—less competition means higher chances.
- Look for no-essay scholarships like the Sallie $2,000 No Essay Scholarship.
- Use Scout College Search to find schools with strong Native student support programs.
Common scholarship mistakes and how to avoid them
- Missing deadlines: Create a timeline and set reminders.
- Ignoring eligibility rules: Double-check tribal and residency requirements.
- Weak essays: Be authentic and clear about your goals.
- Not applying for enough scholarships: Cast a wide net – apply to multiple opportunities.
See how scholarships can do even more for you by exploring the full list of benefits.
Native American scholarship tips
- Keep your grades strong—many awards require a minimum GPA.
- Stay involved in your community—leadership and service often matter.
- Apply early and often—don’t wait until senior year crunch time.
- Find the right scholarship for you—explore all types with Scholly Scholarships.
Additional scholarships for students interested in Native American scholarships
Whether you're into tech, art, activism, or just figuring it out, these categories can help you find funding that fits your journey:
- Scholarships by Major - Find scholarships tailored to your field of study—whether it's STEM, arts, business, or education.
- Scholarships for High School Seniors - Perfect for students starting their college journey. Many deadlines fall during senior year.
- Scholarships for College Students - Keep applying throughout college—new opportunities open up every year.
- Scholarships for First Generation Students - If you’re the first in your family to attend college, these scholarships are designed to support you.
- Scholarships for Adults - Returning to school? These scholarships help adult learners fund their education.
- Scholarships for Women - Empowering scholarships for women, including awards specifically for Black women.
- LGBTQ+ Scholarships - Scholarships that support students navigating both racial and LGBTQ+ identities.
- Scholarships by State - Local scholarships often have fewer applicants—boost your chances by applying close to home.
Frequently asked questions
These tips can help as you get ready to apply for Native American scholarships.
When are scholarship application deadlines?
There’s no standard deadline for scholarship applications. Each scholarship has its own deadline, so be sure to keep track of dates and make sure you don’t miss any deadlines of scholarships that you want to apply to.
Do you need to know which college you’re attending?
You don’t need to know which college you’re going to attend before applying for most scholarships. However, once you’re awarded scholarships, some of them may ask for eligibility verification—which can include proof of college enrollment.
Is there a limit on how many scholarships you can apply for?
Absolutely not, so apply for as many as you can to increase your chances of winning free money. Want to find more types of scholarships? There are so many, check them out!
Pro tip: Apply for scholarships each year you’re in college.
Does every scholarship application require an essay?
Not every scholarship will ask you to submit an essay—different scholarships have different requirements. If you’re applying for a scholarship with an essay and need help writing yours, get tips for writing scholarship essays.
Need more money for college?
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More resources to explore
Tips for writing scholarship essays
Get tips for writing scholarship essays. Learn what makes a good scholarship essay.
Find scholarship resources
Explore our scholarship resources, articles, and guide to get all the tips and tricks to help pay for college.
Fill out the FAFSA®
Learn when and how to apply for the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to maximize your chances of getting federal student financial aid. Get tips now.
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FAFSA® is a registered service mark of U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid.