What's the application process for the Cherokee Nation College Scholarship?

I'm interested in applying for the Cherokee Nation College Scholarship. Can anyone share any important details about the application process and what makes a strong application?

The application process for the Cherokee Nation College Scholarship Program is fairly straightforward. Here's a brief overview of what steps you'll have to take:

1. Requirements: Before starting the application, make sure you meet the requirements. The applicant must be a Cherokee Nation citizen and a high school graduate or equivalent (GED), or a college student at an accredited college on a full-time basis.

2. Application: First, you'll need to head to the Cherokee Nation's official website to fill out an application. The application includes some standard information such as name, address, and details about your high school or college career.

3. Documents: You will need to submit several documents along with your application, including: copies of Cherokee Nation citizenship card (blue card), a high-resolution photograph, and copies of your current degree plan/program from your college.

4. Academic Transcripts: Alongside this, you must submit your academic transcripts, and they must reflect a minimum of 12-hour enrollment as well as any parent or guardian's income information.

5. Essay: A key component of an application to the Cherokee Nation College Scholarship Program is an essay. When preparing your essay, make sure to focus on showcasing your personal experiences, aspirations, and how the scholarship will aid in your college education. Since much of the selection process focuses on the written essay, it's crucial to invest time in this part of the application.

6. Once you've completed these steps, submit your application and supporting materials to the Cherokee Nation. The application deadline usually falls in the spring, so make sure you check the specific date for the calendar year you're applying in.

In terms of creating a strong application, remember to spend time on your essay, making sure it's well-structured and engaging. Demonstrate your passion, drive, and commitment to your studies and post-college goals. As for your academic performance, showing a steady GPA and taking challenging classes whenever possible can also help strengthen your application. Good luck!