College Application Tips for Native American Students

Applying to college can feel overwhelming, but as a Native American student, you have unique stories, perspectives, and resources that can strengthen your application. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you succeed.

Choosing the Right Schools

Tribal Colleges

• Benefits: Culturally responsive education, close to home, affordable
• Programs: Associates and Bachelors degrees, often with strong transfer agreements
• Examples: Diné College, Haskell Indian Nations University, Institute of American Indian Arts

Mainstream Universities

• Look for: Native American student services, cultural centers, support programs
• Consider: Location, size, available majors, graduation rates for Native students
• Research: Native student populations and available scholarships

Writing Your Essays

Authenticity is Key

Your Native identity is an important part of who you are, but you're more than your ethnicity. Consider:

• How has your culture shaped your worldview?
• What challenges have you overcome?
• How will you give back to your community?
• What unique perspectives do you bring?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• ❌ Stereotypes and clichés
• ❌ Writing what you think they want to hear
• ❌ Focusing only on hardship without growth
• ✅ Be specific and personal
• ✅ Show growth and reflection
• ✅ Connect experiences to your goals

Financial Aid Strategies

Maximize Your Aid

1. Complete FAFSA: Do this first - opens doors to federal and institutional aid
2. Tribal Scholarships: Check with your tribe's education department
3. National Scholarships: American Indian College Fund, Cobell, Gates
4. University Aid: Many schools offer specific scholarships for Native students
5. Stack Scholarships: Apply to multiple - you can usually combine them

Document Everything

Keep organized files of:

• Tribal enrollment certificate
• CDIB (if you have one)
• Transcripts
• Test scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Award letters

Getting Letters of Recommendation

Who to Ask

• Teachers who know you well
• Tribal leaders or mentors
• Employers or volunteer coordinators
• School counselors

How to Ask

• Ask at least 4-6 weeks before deadline
• Provide them with: your resume, personal statement draft, and deadline information
• Follow up politely
• Send thank you notes

Application Timeline

Junior Year

• Start researching colleges
• Take SAT/ACT if required
• Visit campuses (many offer free fly-in programs for Native students)
• Begin scholarship search

Summer Before Senior Year

• Finalize college list
• Work on personal statement
• Request transcripts and recommendations
• Start scholarship applications

Fall Senior Year

• Submit applications (aim for early submission)
• Complete FAFSA (opens October 1)
• Apply for scholarships
• Follow up on application status

Spring Senior Year

• Compare financial aid offers
• Make your decision by May 1
• Apply for more scholarships
• Complete housing and orientation registration

Resources

• Native American Student Services: Most universities have dedicated support offices
• Tribal Education Departments: Your tribe may offer guidance and funding
• College Horizons: Free college prep program for Native students
• American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES): Great for STEM students

Remember: You belong in higher education. Your perspective, culture, and experiences are valuable contributions to any campus community.