Top Scholarships for Native American Heritage Month
November marks Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich and extraordinary histories of the Native peoples of the Americas. Despite the challenges faced over generations, the resilience of these communities is a testament to the strength ingrained in their cultural fabric. As we honor this heritage, it is crucial to recognize the aspirations of the young members within these unique tribal nations.
In pursuit of self-improvement and community upliftment, the youth of Native heritage aspire to harness the power of education. By acquiring knowledge and skills, they aim to not only better themselves but also contribute to the advancement and prosperity of their communities. In the spirit of fostering these aspirations, here are 10 scholarships designed specifically for individuals of Native heritage. These opportunities serve as beacons of hope, lighting the way for a future where the brilliance of Native cultures continues to shine brightly.
1. Allogan Slagle Memorial Scholarship
Description: The American Association on Indian Affairs is one of several national organizations that gives scholarships to students who are members of the Native American tribes in the United States.
Amount: $1,500
Eligibility: Native American Student, Submit Tribal Enrollment Copy, Full-Time Student, 2.5 GPA, Essay Submission
Deadline: June 1st, 2024
2. American Indian Services Scholarships
Description: The AIS Scholarship program is to help undergraduate Native American students with financial support to attend college, maintain enrollment, and graduate.
Amount: up to $3,000
Eligibility: Enrolled Member of Tribe, 2.25 GPA, 150 or Fewer Semester Credits, Submit One-Page Autobiography
Deadline: November 15th, 2023
3. NativeVision Scholarship Program
Description: The mission of the NativeVision program is to empower Native American youth to realize their full (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual) potential through the promotion of physical fitness, healthy nutrition, and positive life skills.
Amount: $5,000
Eligibility: Enrolled Tribe Member, 3.0 GPA, Demonstrate Initiative in Addressing Tribal Issues
Deadline: May 5th, 2024
4. Catching the Dream Scholarships
Description: The mission of Catching the Dream, founded in 1986, is to help improve the quality of life in Indian communities through the higher education of Indian people.
Amount: up to $5,000
Eligibility: Enrolled in Tribe, Excellent Academic Achievement, Apply for at least 10 Funding Sources, Three Recommendations
Deadline: March 15th, 2024
5. Navajo Nation Graduate Fellowship
Description: The Navajo Nation Graduate Fellowship is established to provide financial assistance in the form of grant awards to eligible Navajo students wishing to attend or attending graduate school, utilizing the Navajo Nation Graduate Trust Fund.
Amount: up to $10,000
Eligibility: 3.0 GPA, Graduate Student, Navajo Ethnic Background
Deadline: November 25th, 2023
6. Frances Crawford Marvin Scholarship
Description: This scholarship is awarded once a year to one student.
Amount: $4,000
Eligibility: At Least One-Quarter Native Blood, 3.25 GPA, Demonstrate Financial Need
Deadline: February 15th, 2024
7. Hopi Tribe Grants and Scholarship
Description: As servants of our people, we are dedicated to working in a spirit of Suminangwa-Naminangwa, providing quality service and preserving our culture, values, land and resources. We are committed to promoting opportunities for self-determination and self-sufficiency.
Amount: $5,000
Eligibility: Member of Hopi Tribe, HS Diploma or GED, 2.5 GPA, Demonstrate Financial Need,
Deadline: December 1st, 2023
8. Pawnee Nation Higher Education Scholarship
Description: The Higher Education program or scholarship program is to provide supplemental financial assistance to enrolled members of the Pawnee Tribe that are pursuing a bachelor's degree at an accredited institution of higher learning.
Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: Member of Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma, One-Fourth Native Ethnicity, Satisfy Federal Bureau of Indian Affairs Requirements, Pursue Associate or Bachelor’s Degree
Deadline: November 1st, 2024
9. Wells Fargo American Indian Scholarship
Description: The purpose of the Wells Fargo American Indian Scholarship program is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate (juniors and seniors) and graduate students pursuing degrees full-time at an accredited institution.
Amount: $2,500
Eligibility: Tribal Eligibility Certificate, Demonstrate Financial Need, 3.0 GPA, Business-Related Discipline
Deadline: May 1st, 2024
10. Full Circle Scholarship Program
Description: The American Indian College Fund provides scholarships to American Indian and Alaska Native college students who are enrolled in certificate, undergraduate, or graduate programs at tribal colleges or nonprofit, accredited schools.
Amount: up to $15,000
Eligibility: US Citizen, Registered Tribe Member, 2.0 GPA, Demonstrate Financial Need
Deadline: May 31st, 2024
Scholarships for Native American students are not just financial aids; they are catalysts for positive change, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. As we recognize the importance of diversity and inclusivity in education, supporting scholarships for Native American students becomes an imperative step towards creating a more equitable and vibrant future for all. By investing in the education of Native American individuals, we unlock their potential to become leaders, advocates, and contributors to a brighter and more inclusive society.
