Native American Student Resources

A Note on Terminology and Intention

We recognize that there are a number of terms used to identify Indigenous people in the United States. For the purpose of this resource, the term Native American will be used to encompass individuals that identify as Native American, American Indian, Alaskan Native, or Indigenous. The resources and scholarships listed within this resource are primarily aimed toward students that are enrolled in a Federally Recognized Tribe, but there are also resources listed that are available to those that are not Tribal Members.

Preparing for College

Preparing for the college-going process as early as possible can help students and families meet institutional and federal deadlines for financial aid and applying for college. Learn more about some of the resources that can help you get started below.

 

Dual Enrollment

 

Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to get an early start on college by taking college courses while in high school. Learn more about some of the dual enrollment programs offered in Arizona:

 

College-Going Guides

 
 

Tribal Membership & Aid

 

Your tribe will be an important resource for you as you look for ways to fund your education. Some tribes offer financial help for students that are enrolled in their tribe, and scholarships for Native American students often require proof of Tribal Membership or proof of Native Heritage in order to be considered. Start communication with your tribe as soon as possible to make sure you don’t miss any scholarship or financial aid deadlines.

Mentoring Programs

 

Everyone needs a team supporting them. Mentoring programs are a fantastic way to get additional support from someone that understands the unique struggles that you face as you navigate college applications, financial aid, and deciding what path is best for you. If you are interested in joining a mentoring program, there are a few options specific to Native American students:

 

SAT & ACT Info

 

Many colleges and universities require students to submit their score on either the ACT or the SAT. Because of Covid-19, not all schools that normally require these tests are currently requiring them. Check with any schools you are interested in to make sure that you know whether or not taking the ACT or the SAT is required, and which test they want scores from, because some schools only accept one or the other.

  • How to sign up: SAT | ACT

  • Apply for fee waivers: SAT | ACT

  • Study guides and resources: SAT | ACT

Paying for College

Options and resources for Native students.

 

Free or Low Cost Options

 

One way to make college affordable for you, is to look into the free or low-cost schools. There are colleges and universities across the U.S. that offer discounted or waived tuition for Native American students. Reach out directly to the schools you are interested in to and see what types of scholarships or fee-waivers they can offer you.

 

Fill Out the FAFSA

 

In Arizona, students secure an average of almost $10,000 per year in federal financial aid just by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). We recommend completing the FAFSA as early as possible.

FAFSA Help

  • How Financial Aid Works

  • Ask Benji

    • Text “Hey Benji” to 602-786-8171 for 24/7 help filling out your FAFSA

  • Phoenix Indian Center FAFSA Technical Assistance

    • Call 602-264-6768 for info

 

Scholarships

 

Some tribes offer financial help for students that are enrolled in their tribe, and scholarships for Native American students often require proof of Tribal Membership. Reach out to your tribe for more info.

Some scholarships based on financial need while others are given based on academic merit or more specific criteria. Look for scholarships that could apply to you based on your special interests, athletics, community service or identity.

Scholarship Resources

Loans

 

Student loans can also help you pay for college, though they do need to be repaid (with interest). When used smartly, loans are an investment that can pay off.

Completing the FAFSA will unlock many loan opportunities. Before accepting any loans, know what you’re getting into. Get to know the difference between Federal and private loans, understand the repayment requirements and check whether loan forgiveness or deferment would ever be an option.

Selecting a School

Options and resources for NaWhen it comes to education after high school you’ve got options! Did you know there are over 90 in-state school options for Arizona students to earn a certificate, Associate’s Degree or Bachelor’s Degree after high school? Learn about some of the options available and some of the programs and services available to Native students in Arizona.

 

Tribal Colleges and Universities

 

As a whole, Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) are separate and equal Institutions of American Higher Education in the United States. Fully accredited institutions of higher education that can now offer Associate and Bachelor degrees, as well as Graduate degree programs in various fields of study. All of which offer lower tuition rates than mainstream community college and university. There are 32 fully accredited Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) in the U.S. In Arizona, this includes Diné College and Tohono O’odham Community College. TCUs are both integral and essential to their communities, creating environments that foster American Indian culture, languages, and traditions. Learn more.

 

Universities

 

Universities offer undergraduate and graduate programs for earning a bachelor, master or doctoral degree. It typically takes four years to complete a bachelor degree through a university. A university education typically provides knowledge, theory and thinking skills. Many jobs that require a lot of background knowledge and thinking skills require a university degree.

 

Community Colleges

 

Community colleges typically offer two-year programs leading to the Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree. Many also offer certificate/vocational programs. Community college can be a more affordable option for earning credits before transferring to a university.

Vocational Schools & Apprenticeships

 

Vocational, or trade schools, help you learn skills and certificates relevant to specific job types. Some examples include culinary, cosmetology, mechanical and automotive and health care schools. Many community colleges also offer vocational programs.

Apprenticeships are typically offered by employers to develop and prepare their future workforce. They provide paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a nationally-recognized credential. Electrical, plumbing, IT and construction companies typically offer apprenticeships. Learn more.

Comparing Schools

 

You can search and compare colleges, their fields of study, costs, graduation rates, and more, by using the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard.