American Indian Student Grants
According to U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 26 percent of American Indians and Alaska Natives live below the poverty line, making it difficult for students who wish to attend college to do so. Because of this, there are several American Indian college grants, scholarships and funds available to help those who qualify to attain a higher education. Those seeking assistance can apply to several organizations, including the federal government, that provide grants and scholarships.
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U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs
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The U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs assists American Indian college students who are more than one-fourth Indian in a federally recognized tribe. Students who wish to get a grant from the BIA must apply through their own tribe, home agency or area office. The BIA directly funds 26 educational institutions, including two it operates directly in Kansas and New Mexico. Awards from the BIA typically range from $500 to $4,000 per year.
American Indian College Fund
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The AICF distributes approximately 6,000 scholarships each year for students attending tribal colleges on or near reservations. Tribal colleges are controlled by each tribe, and in addition to a core curriculum, teach the values and culture of the tribe. The college fund has a strong interest in giving back to the tribal community, either by giving time or resources. As of 2011, there are 30 tribally controlled colleges in the United States. If you wish to apply for a scholarship through the AICF, you must attend one of the tribally accredited colleges.
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American Indian Graduate Center
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The AIGC is the only nonprofit organization whose mission is to assist American Indian graduate students. It was established in 1969 as the American Indian Scholarships, Inc. Its name changed in 1989 to reflect its mission. The center offers a number of graduate fellowships for qualified students, and also oversees several trust funds designed to help graduate students in various fields of study. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation also administers a fund through the AIGC for graduate students who maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average.
Association on American Indian Affairs
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The AAIA is the oldest American Indian advocacy organization in the United States. It provides eight scholarships per year. The number of scholarships varies from year to year, depending on the generosity of private donations. This is because the organization receives very little government funding. Each scholarship comes in the amount of $1,500 per school year, with half going directly to the school in the fall and spring. The fund also provides a limited amount of emergency aid for students attending school year-round, but does not offer it for summer school students. Students must be at least one-fourth American Indian from a federally recognized tribe. According to its website, you should send in only one application. You will be matched with the appropriate program based on the information you submit.
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References
- FinAid: Financial Aid for Native American Students
- Association on American Indian Affairs: About Us
- American Indian College Fund: Facts About American Indian Education
- American Indian Graduate Center: Gates Millennium Scholars
- American Indian Graduate Center: Chronological History
- Association on American Indian Affairs: Scholarships
Resources
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