I'm a Native American high school student looking into future college options. Are there specific grants or scholarships available to Native American students, and what should I know about applying for them?
Absolutely, there are a variety of scholarships specifically targeted at Native American students. They often aim to encourage higher education within underserved communities and promote diversity in various fields of study. I'll discuss a few notable examples below.
1. The American Indian College Fund: This is one of the most significant sources of scholarship money specifically for Native American students. It provides approximately $7 million in scholarships annually.
2. The Association on American Indian Affairs: This organization offers scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students, focusing on those who demonstrate an interest in tribal public policy or health-related fields.
3. Udall Undergraduate Scholarship: This national scholarship rewards commitment to environmental issues, tribal public policy, or Native American healthcare with up to $7,000 per year.
As for applying, many of these scholarships require proof of tribal enrollment or descendance from enrolled parents or grandparents. Expect to provide a Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB) or official documentation from your recognized tribe.
It's also important to note that many scholarships aimed at Native American students consider things beyond academic performance or financial need, such as commitment to community or demonstrated leadership. These factors should also be highlighted in your applications.
Moreover, just like any other scholarship, be sure to start researching early and note all the respective deadlines. Also, keep in mind that scholarships can come from a variety of places, not just national organizations. Many colleges, states, and local organizations also provide relevant scholarships, so ensure to explore all options.
Lastly, don’t overlook CollegeVine's scholarship tool that is directly integrated into the school search and keeps you updated on scholarships matched to your profile. With both scholarship-specific and general resources at your disposal, there should be numerous financial support opportunities available to you. Good luck with your scholarship search!
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