American Indian and Alaska Native Student Success
American Indian and Alaska Native student success
American Indian and Alaska Native students can succeed at California Community Colleges.
At California Community Colleges, our goal is to put higher education within reach for every student. American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) students are an important part of that goal.
Land Acknowledgement
The California Community Colleges have formally adopted the use of a Land Acknowledgement statement that recognizes the original Tribal Nations of the land where our colleges are located. We honor and are grateful for the land we occupy and are committed to pursuing continuous collaborations with the Tribal Nations of California.
What we're doing for students
We know students face numerous challenges, like financial insecurity, access to resources, racial discrimination and underrepresentation. Whether we’re working with community leaders and organizations or speaking directly to students, we’re committed to helping AIAN students improve the future for themselves, their families and communities.
Financial Aid
Money shouldn't get in the way of going to college and reaching your goals. Thankfully, financial aid is available to help cover college costs like tuition, textbooks, supplies—and sometimes even rent. To get started, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) to apply for financial aid year-round. No matter your financial situation, it's always free to apply and it opens the door to most types of financial aid. There are many financial aid options available, including grants and work study, as well as scholarships specifically for AIAN students. Use our locator tool to get contact information for your local college financial aid office to learn more. Here are just a few financial aid options:
American Indian College Fund
Scholarship
Learn more about the Full Circle Scholarship from the American Indian College Fund website.
Tribal Scholarships
Scholarship
Check with your tribal education office for more information.
The Gates Scholarship
Scholarship
A highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding, minority, high school seniors from low-income households.
Scholarships.com
Scholarship
Looking for a scholarship? You’ve come to the right place. Scholarships.com can point you toward scholarship opportunities specifically for American Indian and Alaska Native students.
Wi’áaşal (Great Oak) Future Leaderships Scholarship Fund
Scholarship
This scholarship is open to most enrolled California tribal members. Up to $20,000 is available each year to students seeking vocational, associate or bachelor’s degrees at any accredited, nonprofit college, university or vocational program.
The Rodney T. Mathews, Jr. Memorial California Native Scholarship
Scholarship
This scholarship provides up to $10,000 and was established to assist California Indian students in pursuing their educational goals through the granting of competitive and meritorious-based financial scholarships.
The Rodney T. Mathews, Jr. Memorial Tribal Member & First Descendant Scholarship
Scholarship
This program assists students in pursuing their educational goals of one vocational program and/or one of each of an associate, bachelor’s, masters, and PhD degrees. Eligibility and scholarship amounts differ for tribal members and first descendants.
The Cobell Scholarship
Scholarship
Both merit-based and need-based, the competitive Cobell Scholarship is an annual, non-renewable, and available to any post-secondary (after high school) student who is: an enrolled member of a US Federally-Recognized Tribe, enrolled in full-time study and is degree-seeking. Applicants must plan to attend or be attending any nationally, regionally and industry accredited non-profit, public and private institution.
The Aawok Georgiana Trull Memorial Scholarship
Scholarship
This scholarship was established to honor the work and life of Aawok Georgina Trull. Federally and non-federally recognized California Indigenous people are eligible to apply. The scholarship is open to students who will be actively enrolled in and attending two or four-year universities, graduate school programs, or trade school.
Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR) Scholarship Fund
Scholarship
FIGR's University of California Scholarship provides in-state systemwide Tuition and Student Services Fees and Campus Fees for students who are California Native Americans but not members of a federally recognized tribe. This scholarship applies to undergraduate and graduate students for professional and non-professional degrees.
University of California (UC) Native American Opportunity Plan
UC’s Native American Opportunity Plan ensures that in-state systemwide Tuition and Student Services Fees are fully covered for California students who are also enrolled in federally recognized Native American, American Indian, and Alaska Native tribes. This plan applies to undergraduate and graduate students.
Associate Degree for Transfer
Take your education further with the California Community Colleges Guaranteed Transfer Program. We’ve partnered with the CSU system, fully online and out-of-state universities and independent colleges and universities in California to guarantee saved spots to AIAN transfer students looking to move on and earn their bachelor’s degree. Don’t miss out on this guaranteed opportunity.
Career Education
The road to a better career starts with enrolling in a career education program at a California community college. If you are looking to acquire the skills you need to succeed, there is a program for you.
Native American Student Support & Success Program (NASSSP)
The Native American Student Support & Success Program (NASSSP) is dedicated to empowering Native American students throughout their educational journeys. Through a supportive community, culturally relevant resources and guidance, NASSSP helps students thrive academically and personally. With mentorship, academic advising, and culturally centered events, the program fosters a sense of belonging and connection, empowering students to achieve their educational and career goals.
The NASSSP program is currently offered at 20 participating colleges, including:
American River College
Bakersfield College
Butte College
Cerro Coso College
College of the Canyons
College of the Redwoods
Cosumnes River College
Folsom Lake College
Fresno City College
Lake Mendocino College
Modesto College
Mt. San Antonio College
Mt. San Jacinto College
Palomar College
Sacramento City College
San Diego Miramar College
San Joaquin Delta College
Santa Rosa Junior College
Sierra College
Southwestern College
FOSTER YOUTH SERVICES
The California Community Colleges provide resources to assist current and former American Indian and Alaska Native foster youth in reconnecting with their tribal communities and preserving their cultural heritage.
Understanding ICWA Regulations
California fully adheres to the federal Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) through AB 3176. This legislation is in place to protect Native American children's connections to their tribes and cultural heritage. Under ICWA, state child custody proceedings involving an Indian child must recognize the unique cultural and social standards of tribal communities, giving preference to placement within Native families.
For families and foster youth looking to reconnect with their tribal heritage, the ICWA also provides pathways for active tribal involvement and family reunification efforts.
Reconnecting with Your Tribe
Many Native American fostered and adopted individuals seek to re-establish their tribal connections as adults. For those who wish to reconnect:
The First Nations Repatriation Institute offers advocacy and support to Native adoptees, fostered individuals, and their families.
The Department of the Interior provides resources, including a "Trace Indian Ancestry" guide, to assist individuals in finding information about their tribal affiliations.
If you were adopted, once you reach the age of 18, you can apply to the court that finalized your adoption for records related to your biological parents' tribal affiliations and membership. Prior to turning 18, your tribe or adoptive family may also request information about your tribal connections through the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Additional Resources
For detailed guidance, explore these resources:
Additionally, FAQ #17 on the NICWA Families & Service Providers page addresses common questions from adult adoptees and foster youth seeking to reconnect with their tribes.
By understanding ICWA protections and utilizing available resources, former and current foster youth can strengthen their ties with their cultural heritage and tribal communities.
On-Campus Organizations
American Indian and Alaska Native students can benefit from joining a student club or organization. Every campus has different offerings, so be sure to check with your local college. Some of the organizations may include:
- American Indian, Native American, or Indigenous Peoples Clubs
- Native American Inter-Tribal Student Association (NAISA)
- Native American Student Alliance
- Native American Resource Centers: Check our locator tool to find if your local campus has a Native American Resource Center
Tutoring Services
Free tutoring services are available to all American Indian and Alaskan Native students, both online and in-person. Tutors are students too, and they’re knowledgeable in many subjects, ranging from math to writing. If you need support with any subject, be sure to check with your local campus for a complete list of tutors or skills workshops.
Food and Housing
We know food or housing insecurity is real for many AIAN students. Eleven California community college campuses offer student housing, and free money is available for groceries through the CalFresh program. If you’re an AIAN student in need of food and housing support, we can help.
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On-Campus HousingSome California community colleges offer on-campus housing options. Take the next step and see if on-campus housing is available near you.
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Free Money for GroceriesMany California community college students are eligible for CalFresh, a program that helps them buy food and eat healthier. CalFresh benefits are not income and don’t impact your taxes or financial aid. Find out if you qualify today.
