North Dakota offers up to $2,000 per year to resident students who are enrolled members of a federally recognized Tribe and attend an accredited program in the state. The scholarship can support technical training, certificates, undergraduate, graduate, or professional study, but total aid cannot exceed cost of attendance. Funding is limited, and the state uses merit and need priorities rather than simply guaranteeing awards to everyone who applies.
Eligibility requires at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA and North Dakota residency certification from the institution. The merit track requires a 3.5 GPA or higher; the need-based track covers GPAs from 2.0 to 3.499 and requires the 2026–27 FAFSA. Students apply every year with tribal enrollment verification—such as a tribal ID or certificate—an official transcript, and forms completed by the college.
July 15 is the annual priority date. It has passed for 2026–27; late applications are considered only if all priority applicants have been awarded and funds remain. ND SAMS is the preferred route, and the system specifically warns against emailing documents containing sensitive personal information. If you applied, confirm that the campus sent residency certification and need analysis to NDUS; otherwise, ask which other funding remains available.
Before accepting aid, compare net cost and uncovered charges. Confirm residency, program, credits, deadlines, renewal, and service obligations in writing with the responsible financial-aid office.
Read the official program profile and FAFSA guide; request an individual review before enrolling.
Native American Scholarship — North Dakota University System.
Portal ND SAMS — North Dakota University System.
Checked October 13, 2026 against official sources. Eligibility, funding, requirements, and dates can change each cycle; this guide distinguishes past and upcoming deadlines. Before enrolling, ask financial aid for an individual net-cost review and written confirmation of excluded charges.
Compare net costs and confirm requirements, funding, and obligations with the program and institution before committing.
Options to compare
These options relate to the question. Read each profile and check current details before deciding.
North Dakota Native American Scholarship
North Dakota offers up to $2,000 per year to resident students who are enrolled members of a federally recognized Tribe and attend an accredited program in the state. The scholarship can support technical training, certificates, undergraduate, graduate, or professional study, but total aid cannot exceed cost of attendance. Funding is limited, and the state uses merit and need priorities rather than simply guaranteeing awards to everyone who applies. Eligibility requires at le
College financial-aid program
Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education
The agency sets rates, eligibility, and caps; the college certifies need, cost, and the individual amount within those limits.
Public student-aid administering office
Sources & references
Sources for the information and reporting discussed in this guide.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
North Dakota University System · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
North Dakota University System · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official application and program information ↗
Primary source
North Dakota University System · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of North Dakota Native American Scholarship ↗
Primary source
North Dakota University System · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗
Primary source
Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗
Primary source
Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.