The American Indian Scholars Program was established in the 2023 Minnesota Legislative Session. This program provides a first-dollar tuition and fee-free pathway for Minnesotans eligible for resident tuition who are enrolled members or citizens of any federally recognized American Indian tribe, Canadian First Nation, or Minnesota Tribal Nation to attend a Minnesota State institution. Students who are not residents of Minnesota who are enrolled members or citizens of a Minnesota Tribal Nation are also eligible for the program.
How much money can you get?
This program provides a first-dollar tuition and fee-free pathway for eligible students. This means your tuition and fees will be paid with the American Indian Scholars Program. Funds are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If we determine that you are eligible after all funds have been disbursed, you will be added to a waitlist to be awarded, in the event that we receive additional funds.
Who is eligible?
In general, students must:
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate certificate, diploma, or degree program at a Minnesota State institution;
- Not have already obtained a bachelor’s degree;
- Have fewer than 180 credits attended at the college-level; and
- Be either a:
- Minnesota resident and an enrolled member or citizen of a federally recognized American Indian Tribe or Canadian First Nation; or
- Student who is not a Minnesota resident but is an enrolled member or citizen of a Minnesota Tribal Nation.
I’m eligible, what now?
Complete the American Indian Scholarship application with documentation verifying your eligible membership or citizenship of an eligible tribe/nation.
Please allow up to 10 business days for the processing of your application. The Financial Aid Office will notify you of eligibility. If you are eligible for this program, your other financial aid (such as student loans) may need to be reduced so your total financial aid does not exceed your total Cost of Attendance.
Want more information? Check the Minnesota Office of Higher Education.
