Scholarship Opportunity

Minnesota Indian Scholarship

Offered by Minnesota Office of Higher Education

The Minnesota Indian Scholarship provides financial assistance to eligible Minnesota resident students who have qualifying American Indian ancestry or are enrolled members or citizens of a federally recognized American Indian tribe or Canadian First Nation. The program supports undergraduate, graduate, professional, certificate, diploma, and degree study at eligible accredited postsecondary institutions in Minnesota.

EssayNot required
RenewableYes
Grade LevelUndergraduate Student, Graduate Student, Professional Student

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

2026-27 Minnesota Indian Scholarship Cycle

OpensTo Be Announced
DeadlineTo Be Announced

Eligibility

  • Be one-fourth or more American Indian ancestry OR be an enrolled member or citizen of a federally recognized American Indian tribe or Canadian First Nation.
  • Be a Minnesota resident student.
  • Apply for other existing state and federal scholarship and grant programs.
  • Enroll at least three-quarter time as an undergraduate student or at least half time as a graduate student.
  • Attend an eligible accredited postsecondary institution located in Minnesota.
  • Be enrolled in an education program leading to a certificate, diploma, or degree.
  • Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements.
  • Not be in default on a federal or state student loan, or have regained eligibility for federal or state student aid after a default.
  • Undergraduate applicants must qualify for either a Federal Pell Grant or Minnesota State Grant and demonstrate financial need.
  • Graduate applicants must demonstrate financial need.

Requirements

  • Complete the Minnesota Indian Scholarship application.
  • Complete the FAFSA or Minnesota Alternative State Financial Aid Application.
  • Apply for tribal education funds.
  • Provide documentation establishing qualifying American Indian ancestry, tribal enrollment, or citizenship as required.
  • Work with the institution's financial aid office to establish financial need and program eligibility.

How to Apply

  1. 1Create or access an account through the MNAid Student Portal.
  2. 2Complete the Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program application.
  3. 3Complete the FAFSA or Minnesota Alternative State Financial Aid Application.
  4. 4Apply for available tribal education funds.
  5. 5Upload required ancestry or tribal documentation.
  6. 6Confirm enrollment at an eligible accredited Minnesota postsecondary institution.
  7. 7Work with the school's financial aid administrator to complete financial aid and eligibility requirements.
  8. 8Submit materials as early as possible because the program lists July 1 as its annual priority deadline.