Scholarships for Native American Women: Opportunities & Resources
Discover various scholarship opportunities designed to support Native American women in their pursuit of higher education. From tribal grants to government programs, these scholarships aim to bridge financial gaps and promote education equity. Learn about key organizations and resources that can help Native American women access quality education and build brighter futures.
Scholarships Supporting Native American Women’s Education
Scholarships for Native American Women
Native American students represent a small fraction of U.S. public school enrollment, often facing high dropout rates. Recognizing these challenges, numerous organizations and colleges offer financial aid to encourage Native Americans to complete their studies. These scholarships often consider factors such as heritage, tribe affiliation, family background, and residency status. Unfortunately, Native American women, particularly those from low-income communities, are underrepresented and lack equal access to higher education resources.
American Indian College Fund
Established in 1989, this fund is a primary source of scholarships for Native American students, focusing on tribal college support across the country.
Jeanette Rankin Foundation
This foundation offers grants to women over 35 seeking to return to school and improve their livelihoods.
American Indian Education Foundation
Providing around $450,000 annually, this foundation supports 225 students with funding, mentorship, and academic aid.
The Association on American Indian Affairs
Focusing on youth education, health, and cultural preservation, this organization awards eight scholarships annually to Native American women pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Gates Millennium Scholars Program
Since 1999, funded by the Gates Foundation, this program aims to assist minority students, including Native Americans, in completing college.
American Indian Business Scholarship
Sponsored by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, this scholarship supports Native American women pursuing full-time studies in business, promoting industry diversity.
Kathryn M.. Buder Scholarship
At Washington University, this scholarship offers full financial support to Native American women interested in social work within their communities.
CANFIT Program Scholarships
Native American women aspiring to careers in health sciences, nutrition, or culinary arts can apply for scholarships from CANFIT, which emphasizes community health and wellness, especially in underserved populations.
Catching the Dream
This organization provides grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 for Native American women pursuing higher education through various programs like leadership and tribal business management.
Government Assistance
Federal, state, and local governments also offer grants and scholarships to Native American women. Residency often influences eligibility, with those living on reservations qualifying for additional aid. Once awarded, students can pursue further opportunities at different levels of government support.
