Native American Scholarships

Native Americans are one of the most underrepresented populations in the United States when it comes to receiving a college education. Fortunately, the American Indian College Fund (AICF) has been encouraging post secondary education by awarding tribal scholarships for college to American Indians since 1989.

Based in Denver, Colorado, the foundation is dedicated to the education of American Indians and raises money to fund scholarships and to contribute to tribal educational institutions. Over $5,000 is given out each year in scholarships that are sponsored by the AICF. Schools are given a portion of the money that is raised by the AICF to give as Tribal College Scholarships; the AICF uses the remaining funds to award Designated Scholarships which are given to students of Native American heritage that attend any accredited college in the United States.

One of the tribal scholarships for college students that is offered by the AICF is the Sovereign Nations Scholarship Fund Endowment Scholarship. Eligible students can be descendents of any Native American tribe. There are no restrictions on the choice of major and students can be attending undergraduate, graduate, or professional schools in the United States. The school is not required to be a tribal college or university; any accredited college will be recognized. Scholars are expected to work in a profession that will improve the lives of American Indians after graduation from college.

Another tribal scholarship for college students that is awarded by the AICF is the Vine Deloria, Jr. Memorial Scholarship. The Vine Deloria, Jr. scholarship is available to American Indians who are studying for master's degrees and doctorates in the United States. Students must be enrolled full time and show the need for financial assistance to be considered for the award. Native Americans and Alaskan Natives are encouraged to apply for the scholarship.