Apply for the Cobell Scholarship to fund your higher education. This guide covers eligibility criteria, application steps, and deadlines for Indigenous students. The Cobell Scholarship provides financial assistance to high-achieving American Indian and Alaska Native students. Elouise Cobell established this program to empower Indigenous scholars through education. The program supports students across various academic levels, including vocational, undergraduate, and graduate degrees.
This post provides facts and research-based details to help you secure funding. We gathered data from the official Indigenous Education, Inc. reports and federal education guidelines. These sources ensure you receive accurate information regarding your application requirements and eligibility status.
Indigenous Education, Inc. manages the scholarship funds. The organization distributes awards based on both merit and financial need. Students must demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and academic persistence to qualify for these competitive funds.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Vocational, Undergraduate, and Graduate degrees
- Location: United States
- Institution(s): Any accredited non-profit institution
- Program Period: 1 academic year (renewable)
- Course offered: All academic disciplines, such as nursing, engineering, and education
- Deadline: March 31 (Academic Year), June 1 (Summer)
Scholarship Coverage
Here are the Cobell Scholarship coverage details into steps:
Step 1: Apply for Other Aid First
Since funds work as “last-dollar” aid, you must first apply for all other grants and scholarships available to you.
Step 2: Determine Your Remaining Need
After other aid is applied, Cobell covers what’s left based on your specific financial situation — awards are not fixed.
Step 3: Identify What’s Covered
The scholarship supports three areas:
- Tuition
- Living stipends
- Books
Step 4: Know Your Award Range
- Undergraduate students: $2,000 – $5,000
- Graduate students: up to $10,000
Step 5: Receive a Personalized Award
Your final amount is based on your individual financial need, not a one-size-fits-all figure.
Eligibility Criteria
There are three primary eligibility requirements for the Cobell Scholarship:
- Tribal Enrollment: Applicants must be enrolled members of a federally recognized tribe.
- Academic Status: Students must be enrolled full-time in an accredited degree program.
- Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate financial need through a completed FAFSA.
Application Process
To apply for the Cobell Scholarship, you must create an account on the OASIS (Online Application System for Indigenous Scholars) portal.
- Create an Online Profile: Register your personal details, tribal affiliation, and contact information on the scholarship website.
- Submit Academic Documents: Upload 3 essential documents, such as official transcripts, proof of tribal enrollment, and a current resume.
- Complete the FAFSA: Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to generate a Student Aid Report.
- Request a Tribal Needs Grant: Contact your tribal education office to complete the financial need assessment form.
- Craft a Personal Statement: Write an essay that highlights your achievements, community service, and career goals.
- Secure Recommendations: Request letters of support from 3 professional sources, such as teachers, community leaders, and employers.
You must submit all digital files or documents in PDF format if you want the system to process your application correctly.
Deadline
The application portal closes on March 31 for the standard academic year. Summer session applications are due by June 1. You should submit your materials at least 2 weeks early to avoid technical issues.
