Scholarships for Native American Women: Opportunities to Pursue Higher Education

Scholarships for Native American Women

Scholarships Available for Native American Women

Native American populations are among the most underrepresented groups in U.S. education, comprising less than one percent of public school students. High dropout rates among American Indian and Alaskan Native students highlight the need for targeted support. Numerous organizations and colleges offer scholarships and grants aimed at encouraging Native American women to complete their degrees. These programs often consider factors such as:

• Heritage and tribal ties

• Family background

• Residency status

• Socio-economic status

However, Native American women, especially those from low-income families, often face barriers that limit access to higher education, resulting in continued underrepresentation. Support programs aim to bridge this gap and empower these women to pursue their academic goals.

Here are notable scholarships accessible to Native American students:

American Indian College Fund

Founded in 1989, the American Indian College Fund is among the largest sources of financial aid for Native American students, supporting tribal colleges nationwide. Their scholarships are exclusively available to Native students pursuing higher education.

Jeanette Rankin Foundation

This foundation provides grants and scholarships to women over 35 seeking to return to school and improve their livelihoods for themselves and their families.

American Indian Education Foundation

This major funder allocates around $450,000 annually to support Native American students by providing essential resources, mentorship, and tutoring assistance.

Supporting approximately 225 students each year, the foundation offers vital encouragement and educational support.

American Indian Affairs

The organization focuses on youth education, health initiatives, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. They provide eight scholarships to Native American women at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Gates Millennium Scholars Program

Initiated by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in 1999, this program aims to support minority students, including Native Americans, in completing their college degrees, regardless of specific tribal affiliation.

American Indian Business Scholarship

The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development sponsors full scholarships for Native American women studying business at undergraduate or graduate levels, promoting diversity and supporting career growth.

Kathryn M. Buder Social Work Scholarship

The Kathryn M. Buder Center at Washington University offers full scholarships to Native American women aspiring to practice social work within their communities.

CANFIT Program Scholarships

Women interested in careers in health sciences—such as nutrition, physical education, or culinary arts—can apply for scholarships through CANFIT, which emphasizes underserved communities and aims to promote healthy lifestyles and community betterment.

Catching the Dream

This organization offers scholarships between $500 and $5,000, supporting Native American women pursuing higher education through various programs like the Native American Leadership Education Program and Tribal Business Management.

Government Grants

Native American women may also qualify for federal, state, and local government aid. Residents on tribal lands often access more extensive local support, which can serve as a foundation for applying for additional federal and state financial aid for higher education.