Navigating the journey through higher education can be challenging, especially for Native American students who often face unique financial, cultural, and systemic obstacles. Scholarships are a vital resource that can help alleviate these pressures and open doors to meaningful academic and career opportunities.
Among the most respected organizations offering financial aid and academic support to Indigenous students is the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES). With a long-standing mission to increase the representation of Native Americans in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields, AISES provides numerous scholarship opportunities to support students on their academic paths.
This guide explores the vast range of AISES scholarship opportunities available to Native American students, from eligibility and application tips to real success stories and additional resources. Whether you’re a high school senior planning your college journey or a graduate student looking for continued support, this article provides everything you need to know to take full advantage of AISES scholarships.
What is AISES?
The American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) is a national, non-profit organization founded in 1977 by a group of Native American scientists, engineers, and educators who recognized the urgent need to increase Indigenous representation in technical and scientific fields. Over the decades, AISES has grown into a vibrant community of students, professionals, educators, and corporate partners who work together to promote excellence in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education and careers.
Its mission is to substantially increase the representation of Indigenous peoplesâspecifically American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and First Nations students and professionalsâin STEM disciplines. This includes not only academic success but also professional development and leadership training. AISES provides a wide range of programs that serve as stepping stones from early education through college and into successful careers.
AISES supports these communities through:
- Academic scholarships
- Professional and peer mentoring
- Internship and job opportunities
- Leadership development programs
- K-12 STEM outreach and engagement
- National and regional conferences
- Research and publication opportunities
The organization has established relationships with major corporations such as Google, Intel, Chevron, and Boeing, as well as with federal agencies like NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Energy. These partnerships help AISES provide substantial financial support and real-world experience to its members.
AISES also places a strong emphasis on cultural preservation. Unlike many STEM-focused initiatives, AISES integrates Indigenous culture, values, and community into all aspects of its programming. Events often begin with traditional ceremonies and offer space for Native identity to be honored alongside academic and professional achievement. This dual focus on heritage and innovation makes AISES a unique and empowering force in Indigenous education.
With over 5,600 individual members, 220 affiliated chapters (including university, professional, and pre-college), and more than four decades of impact, AISES continues to be a cornerstone organization in the movement to advance Indigenous people in STEM fields.
Why AISES Scholarships Matter for Native American Students
Access to higher education remains a significant barrier for many Indigenous students in the United States and Canada. Factors such as generational poverty, underfunded Kâ12 education systems, lack of access to college preparation resources, and historical disenfranchisement contribute to disproportionately low enrollment and graduation rates among Native students. Additionally, many tribal communities are located in remote or rural areas where educational opportunities in advanced fields like science and engineering are limited.
AISES scholarships aim to address these challenges and create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous students to pursue higher education, particularly in STEM disciplines where Native American representation remains extremely low.
AISES scholarships are designed to level the playing field by:
- Providing financial relief for tuition, books, housing, transportation, and other academic expenses. This allows students to focus more on their studies and less on part-time work or student loans.
- Encouraging academic excellence and persistence in STEM disciplines by rewarding hard work and dedication. Scholarships often include mentorship opportunities that help students stay engaged and motivated.
- Creating a community of support through AISES chapter programs, networking events, leadership summits, and national conferences. These spaces allow students to connect with like-minded peers, role models, and professionals who share similar cultural backgrounds and aspirations.
- Increasing visibility and representation of Native Americans in high-tech industries and academic research. By providing a pathway into these fields, AISES helps reshape outdated narratives and promote Indigenous excellence in science and technology.
Moreover, AISES scholarships play a critical role in long-term community development. When Indigenous students succeed in STEM careers, they often return to serve their communitiesâas engineers who build infrastructure on tribal lands, environmental scientists who protect sacred natural resources, educators who mentor the next generation, or entrepreneurs who drive economic growth. These scholarships are not just investments in individualsâthey are investments in tribal sovereignty, self-determination, and the sustainable future of Indigenous nations.
Through this holistic approach, AISES continues to empower Native students to not only achieve personal academic goals but also become leaders and innovators within their communities and beyond.
Types of AISES Scholarships
AISES offers a broad spectrum of scholarships targeting students at different academic levels and with diverse career interests in STEM and related fields. These scholarships are not only financial resources but also gateways to mentorship, internships, and professional development. They are typically funded through strategic partnerships with leading corporations, philanthropic organizations, and federal agencies that share AISES’s vision for advancing Indigenous representation in STEM.
Below are some of the most popular and recurring scholarship programs:
A. AISES Google Scholarship
Sponsored by Google, this scholarship supports Indigenous undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, or other closely related technical fields. In addition to receiving financial aid, recipients are often invited to attend Google’s annual Student Retreat, where they meet with engineers and leaders in tech, participate in workshops, and gain insights into the tech industry. The scholarship also includes opportunities to apply for summer internships at Google.
Award Amount: \$10,000
B. AISES Chevron Scholarship
The Chevron Scholarship is designed for Native students who are enrolled in a four-year college or university and studying in STEM disciplines relevant to the energy industry. These include petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, geology, environmental science, and other technical areas with applications in energy production and sustainability. This scholarship is part of Chevronâs broader commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce, particularly in fields where Indigenous people have been historically underrepresented.
Award Amount: \$5,000â\$10,000
C. AISES Intel Growing Legacy Scholarship
This program is part of Intelâs initiative to cultivate long-term relationships with Indigenous students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic strength. Students studying electrical engineering, data science, information technology, and physics are strongly encouraged to apply. Scholars often receive mentorship and may be considered for research opportunities or future employment with Intel. The scholarship supports both undergraduate and graduate students, making it suitable for those continuing to advanced degrees.
Award Amount: \$5,000 (Undergraduate), \$10,000 (Graduate)
D. AISES A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship
One of the longest-running and most accessible scholarships offered by AISES, the A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship honors one of the organization’s original founders. It is open to Indigenous students pursuing STEM fields at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Because of its broad eligibility and strong cultural legacy, this scholarship is often a first step for students becoming engaged with AISES programming and events.
Award Amount: \$1,000â\$2,000 per academic year
E. AISES Aristocrat/VGT Scholarship
Offered in collaboration with Aristocrat and Video Gaming Technologies (VGT), this scholarship supports students in technology-related majors, especially those with a focus on software development, gaming technology, digital design, or information systems. It is ideal for students interested in careers within the growing gaming industry, including roles in game development, cybersecurity, UI/UX design, and network administration. Some recipients may be considered for internships or job placements within the sponsoring companies.
Award Amount: Varies
F. AISES Energy Scholarships
AISES also collaborates with major energy sector partners like ExxonMobil and the American Indian College Fund to offer scholarships tailored to students committed to careers in energy, environmental science, and sustainability. These scholarships often emphasize leadership in environmental stewardship, renewable energy research, and infrastructure development in tribal communities. Recipients are typically encouraged to take part in research projects, internships, or community-based initiatives related to environmental impact and innovation.
Award Amount: Typically ranges from \$2,500 to \$10,000, depending on the partner organization
These scholarship programs not only reduce the financial burden of higher education but also provide strategic advantages through professional networking, internships, and early career exposure. Each award has its own eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application materials, so students are encouraged to explore each option thoroughly and apply to as many as they qualify for.
Eligibility Criteria
While AISES offers a wide range of scholarships supported by various partners, most of the programs share a core set of eligibility requirements. These criteria ensure that scholarships reach students who are both academically capable and culturally connected to Indigenous communities. Although each individual scholarship may have specific requirements, there are several common standards that applicants can expect across the board.
General Requirements
Be an enrolled AISES member. Students must be active members of AISES to apply for scholarships. Membership is typically free for students and provides access to additional benefits such as leadership opportunities, mentoring, and invitations to exclusive events like the AISES National Conference. Registering is a quick process that can be completed online.
Be a full-time student at an accredited institution. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a college, university, or tribal college that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or a comparable Canadian accrediting body. Full-time status generally means taking a minimum number of credit hours per term, usually around 12 for undergraduates.
Be a member of a recognized tribe. Most AISES scholarships require students to be enrolled members or descendants of a federally or state-recognized tribe or First Nations community. Some scholarships may accept proof of ancestry or a Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB), while others may request formal tribal enrollment documentation. This is to ensure that resources are directed to students with verifiable Indigenous heritage.
Pursue a STEM-related field. AISES focuses primarily on increasing Indigenous representation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Therefore, most scholarships are limited to students pursuing majors such as biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, environmental science, mechanical engineering, and related disciplines. A few select scholarships also include business, health sciences, or social sciences when these fields have a strong technological or scientific component.
Maintain a competitive GPA. Academic performance is a key selection criterion. Most scholarships require a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, although this may vary slightly depending on the sponsor. A strong GPA reflects a studentâs discipline, consistency, and ability to handle rigorous coursework, which are important qualities for scholarship recipients.
Demonstrate leadership qualities and community involvement. Many AISES scholarships place a strong emphasis on applicants who are not only academically driven but also engaged with their communities. Leadership can take many forms, including serving in school clubs, volunteering in tribal initiatives, participating in youth councils, or mentoring other students. These experiences show a commitment to giving back and making a positive impact.
In addition to these general requirements, individual scholarships may ask for specific majors, class standings (such as junior or senior status), geographic location, or career interests. Some may also include supplemental questions or essays that align with the sponsorâs mission or values.
To avoid missing out on opportunities, students are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship they are interested in and plan ahead to gather all required documents and references. Early preparation and attention to detail can make a significant difference in a competitive application process.
Application Process
The AISES scholarship application process is centralized through its online scholarship platform, streamlining access to a variety of funding opportunities in one convenient location. The application cycle typically opens in January and closes around May or June, though specific deadlines may vary slightly by scholarship. Students are encouraged to begin early to ensure they have adequate time to gather documents, write essays, and secure strong letters of recommendation.
Unlike many scholarship programs, AISES uses a single application system for most of its scholarships, meaning that applicants may be considered for multiple awards through one comprehensive application. This is especially helpful for students who meet general eligibility requirements but are unsure which specific scholarships they qualify for.
Steps to Apply:
1. Create an AISES Profile
All scholarship applicants must have a current AISES membership. To apply, students must first create or update their member profile at [aises.org](https://www.aises.org/). The membership is free for students and offers ongoing benefits beyond scholarships, including access to exclusive internships, career fairs, and professional networking opportunities.
2. Access the Scholarship Portal
After logging into the website, applicants should navigate to the Scholarships section under the Programs menu. From there, they can access the online scholarship application portal, where theyâll see available scholarships listed along with eligibility details. This portal is where students will complete and submit their application materials.
3. Prepare Required Documents
The application requires several key documents. These should be gathered ahead of time and uploaded directly to the portal:
- Transcripts: Official or unofficial academic transcripts are usually accepted. These provide evidence of GPA and academic performance.
- Proof of tribal enrollment:Â This could include a Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB), tribal ID card, or a letter from a tribal government or enrollment office.
- Letters of recommendation:Â Typically from teachers, mentors, academic advisors, or community leaders. It’s important to request these early to give your recommenders enough time to write thoughtful and personalized letters.
- Resume or CV:Â Should include academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community involvement, and work experience.
- Personal statement or essay:Â Most applications require a written statement addressing your educational and career goals, your connection to your Indigenous identity, your commitment to STEM, and how the scholarship will support your aspirations. Tailoring your essay to reflect AISESâs mission can strengthen your application.
4. Submit Before Deadline
All documents and required forms must be submitted before the deadline stated on the portal. Late or incomplete applications are generally not considered, so students should double-check that every required field is filled and each file is correctly uploaded. Submitting early can also give applicants a chance to fix any unexpected issues with the application system.
5. Track Application Status
Once submitted, applicants can log back into the AISES portal to monitor the status of their application. This includes viewing updates, checking if materials have been received, and receiving notifications about next steps. Selected recipients are typically notified via email and may be required to accept the award formally and confirm their enrollment status.
Students applying should also consider participating in an AISES scholarship webinar or information session, which is often offered early in the application cycle. These sessions provide tips on crafting a strong application and avoiding common mistakes. Applicants are also encouraged to reach out to their academic advisors, AISES chapter mentors, or the AISES scholarship staff for guidance throughout the process.
By following this structured process, applicants maximize their chances of not only receiving funding but also building a deeper connection with AISES and its broad network of Indigenous STEM leaders.
Tips for Writing a Winning AISES Scholarship Application
Securing an AISES scholarship can be competitive, as many qualified students from across the country apply each year. A strong application doesnât just meet the minimum criteriaâit tells a compelling story about who you are, what youâve accomplished, and what you hope to achieve as a Native student in STEM. Below are detailed tips to help applicants stand out.
1. Tailor Your Essays
Generic responses rarely make an impact. Use your essay to reflect your authentic voice and unique experiences as an Indigenous student. Discuss how your tribal identity has shaped your values and how it influences your academic and career path. If youâve faced obstaclesâsuch as limited access to STEM resources, financial hardship, or systemic barriersâspeak honestly about them and explain how youâve overcome them or plan to do so.
Donât just list your goalsâconnect them to your personal journey. For example, instead of simply saying you want to be a civil engineer, explain how you plan to use your degree to improve infrastructure on tribal lands or develop sustainable housing for Native communities. Be specific and visionary.
2. Start Early
High-quality applications take time to develop. Begin the process several weeks before the deadline to allow time for brainstorming, drafting, and refining your essays. Starting early also gives you the flexibility to request transcripts, tribal documentation, and recommendation letters without the stress of looming due dates.
Procrastinating may result in rushed, incomplete, or poorly edited applicationsâissues that can easily be avoided with good planning. Setting a personal timeline with weekly milestones can help keep you on track.
3. Highlight Community Engagement
AISES places strong value on community involvement, cultural leadership, and service. This doesn’t have to be formal; it can include a wide range of activities such as helping organize community events, teaching language classes, participating in tribal governance or youth programs, or contributing to environmental preservation efforts on tribal land.
Be sure to explain the significance of your work and how it aligns with AISES’s mission of advancing Indigenous leadership in STEM. Even small-scale efforts can have a big impact when theyâre rooted in cultural pride and a spirit of service.
4. Secure Strong Recommendations
Strong recommendation letters can set your application apart. Choose people who truly know youânot just academically, but also personally. Ideal recommenders include teachers, professors, tribal leaders, mentors, or supervisors who can speak to your achievements, challenges, and growth over time.
Let your recommenders know what scholarship you are applying for and why itâs important to you. Provide them with your resume or a summary of your accomplishments to help them write a detailed and personalized letter. Ask earlyâat least three to four weeks in advanceâand follow up respectfully if needed.
5. Proofread and Edit
First impressions matter. Spelling mistakes, grammar issues, or awkward phrasing can make an otherwise strong application seem rushed or careless. After finishing your essays and uploading your documents, take the time to carefully review everything.
Read your essays out loud to catch awkward sentences or repetitive ideas. You can also ask a teacher, mentor, or AISES chapter advisor to review your application for clarity and polish. Consider using writing centers or peer editing services if available through your school.
Good writing doesnât mean using complicated vocabularyâit means being clear, genuine, and organized in how you present your story.
How AISES Supports Students Beyond Scholarships
While scholarships are a crucial offering, AISES is more than just a funding source. The organization provides a holistic ecosystem that nurtures students throughout their educational and professional journeys. This support extends far beyond financial aid, addressing the social, cultural, and professional needs of Indigenous students in STEM fields. By fostering community, building skills, and creating opportunities, AISES ensures that its members are not only equipped to succeed in their studies, but also prepared to thrive in their careers and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
AISES National Conference
Held annually, the AISES National Conference is a flagship event that brings together thousands of Indigenous students, professionals, educators, and corporate representatives. It is one of the largest gatherings of Indigenous STEM talent in North America, offering attendees the chance to connect, learn, and grow in a culturally affirming environment. The conference includes:
- Career fairs featuring recruiters from top companies, federal agencies, and graduate schools actively seeking Indigenous talent.
- Internship placements and on-the-spot interviews, providing real-world pathways to valuable work experiences.
- Workshops on resume writing, STEM research, leadership skills, and navigating academic or workplace challenges.
- Research presentations where students can share their work, receive feedback, and gain confidence in presenting in professional settings.
- Cultural celebrations such as powwows, traditional dances, and storytelling events that honor Indigenous heritage and foster a sense of belonging.
Students leave the conference with not only new knowledge but also expanded networks, mentorship connections, and renewed motivation to pursue their goals.
Internship and Career Placement
AISES has cultivated strong relationships with major corporations, government agencies, and academic institutions, all of which actively recruit AISES members. These partnerships provide students with:
- Access to competitive summer internships in science, engineering, technology, environmental policy, and more.
- Job shadowing opportunities that help students explore career paths and gain workplace experience before graduation.
- Entry-level job placements that match graduates with roles that align with their degrees and long-term ambitions.
Some internships also lead to full-time job offers, especially when students have already made a strong impression during their time with the company. For employers, partnering with AISES is a way to diversify their workforce and benefit from the unique perspectives that Indigenous professionals bring to their organizations.
Leadership Development Programs
Recognizing the importance of leadership within both tribal and professional communities, AISES offers several initiatives to cultivate confidence, communication skills, and civic engagement among Native students. These programs include:
- Leadership summits that bring together emerging leaders from across the country for hands-on training in conflict resolution, decision-making, project planning, and team-building.
- Youth camps and retreats where high school and college students explore STEM through culturally relevant activities while developing their leadership potential.
- Mentorship programs that connect students with professionals in their fields of interest, offering guidance on academic decisions, career paths, and personal development.
In addition, AISES encourages student leadership within its regional and campus chapters, giving members opportunities to organize events, lead projects, and represent their peers in regional councils and the national student body.
Through this robust support network, AISES not only helps students graduate but empowers them to become trailblazers in their fields and agents of positive change in their communities.
Other Funding Opportunities for Native American Students
In addition to the scholarships offered through AISES, there are numerous other funding sources available to Native American students seeking to further their education. These programs often vary in scope, eligibility, and award size, but all share a commitment to supporting Indigenous students in higher education. Many students benefit significantly by combining multiple sources of funding, which can reduce or eliminate the need for student loans.
Here are some other valuable opportunities:
American Indian College Fund (AICF)
One of the most well-established organizations supporting Native students, the AICF provides scholarships specifically for students attending tribal colleges and universities (TCUs), though some programs are open to those enrolled at non-tribal institutions. The fund also offers scholarships for graduate students, adult learners, and students pursuing vocational training. In addition to financial support, AICF invests in student success services, leadership development, and community-building initiatives.
Cobell Scholarship Program
Administered by Indigenous Education, Inc., the Cobell Scholarship is a merit- and need-based program for Native American and Alaska Native students pursuing post-secondary education. It offers both academic year and summer funding and is one of the most substantial private scholarships available to Indigenous students. The program includes support for undergraduate, graduate, and vocational students. Applicants must be enrolled in or affiliated with a federally recognized tribe and demonstrate a commitment to tribal communities.
Udall Foundation Scholarships
The Udall Scholarship is a prestigious, nationally competitive award for college sophomores and juniors who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to public service related to Native American policy, tribal health care, or the environment. Applicants must be Native American or Alaska Native and be working toward careers that benefit Native communities. This scholarship also includes participation in a leadership orientation in Arizona with other Udall Scholars.
Tribal College and University Scholarships
Many tribal colleges and universities (TCUs) offer institutional scholarships funded by their own endowments or tribal education departments. These scholarships often prioritize students from local or affiliated tribes and may consider academic achievement, financial need, or tribal service. Some TCUs also participate in federal programs that offer tuition waivers or grant funding for Native students pursuing specific degrees.
Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)
SACNAS supports Native American and Hispanic students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through conferences, mentorship programs, and scholarships. Although not exclusively for Native students, SACNAS provides an inclusive environment where Indigenous STEM students can thrive. Scholarships are available to help cover the cost of attending SACNAS conferences and pursuing advanced academic research opportunities.
These additional funding streams can be combined with AISES scholarships or other financial aid to build a more comprehensive support system. Many successful students apply to several of these programs throughout their academic careers to help cover the full cost of tuition, living expenses, books, and even travel for internships or research.
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FAQs
Furthermore, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about
Can high school students apply for AISES scholarships?
While the majority of AISES scholarships are designed for college students already enrolled in a degree program, a few scholarships are open to incoming freshmen, especially those who have already committed to a college and declared a STEM major. High school seniors should carefully read each scholarshipâs eligibility criteria and consider joining AISES early to begin building connections and learning about future opportunities.
Do I need to be in a STEM major?
Most AISES scholarships prioritize students in STEM fieldsâincluding disciplines such as biology, environmental science, engineering, and computer science. However, some scholarships extend eligibility to students in business, health sciences, public policy, or the social sciences, especially if their work relates to science, technology, or innovation in Indigenous communities. If your field of study aligns with AISESâs mission of advancing Indigenous excellence in STEM, itâs worth applying.
Are AISES scholarships renewable?
Some AISES scholarships are renewable, but this depends on the sponsor and program. Typically, students must maintain a certain GPA, full-time enrollment status, and reapply each year with updated transcripts and documentation. Renewal may also depend on the continued availability of funding. Always read the specific terms and conditions associated with the scholarship you’re awarded.
Is tribal enrollment proof required?
Yes, applicants must usually provide documentation of tribal enrollment or descent from a federally or state-recognized tribe or First Nations community. This may include a Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB), tribal ID, or an official letter from your tribal enrollment office. Some scholarships may accept proof of descent in lieu of official enrollment, particularly for students from mixed-heritage backgrounds. Always verify the documentation requirements before submitting your application.
Conclusion
AISES scholarships represent more than just financial aidâthey are a powerful tool for educational access, cultural affirmation, and professional growth. For Native American students aspiring to make a mark in STEM fields, these scholarships provide not only the means but also the motivation and mentorship needed for long-term success.
Whether you’re a budding engineer, a tech enthusiast, or a future scientist from an Indigenous background, donât overlook the opportunities that AISES has to offer. By leveraging their robust network, scholarships, and support systems, you can confidently step into your futureâand inspire others in your community to do the same.
For more information or to apply, visit the AISES official website
