Each trade program has its own registration requirements and deadlines, it is important that you have completed all registration requirements prior to applying for the AIS Trade School Scholarship. ALL required documents need to be uploaded to the student’s application and are due by the deadline.
Scholarship Details
- Sponsored by American Indian Services
- Supports students enrolled in accredited trade and technical education programs
- Available to both full-time and part-time students taking at least six credit hours
- Scholarship funds are sent directly to the recipient's educational institution
- Recipients must submit a thank-you letter before scholarship funds are disbursed
- Applications are offered twice annually for September and January awards
- September application deadline is July 1 for eligible fall terms
- January application deadline is November 1 for eligible winter terms
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited technical or trade school
- The selected school must hold recognized accreditation
- Must be an enrolled member of a federally recognized American Indian or Alaska Native tribe or be a direct descendant of a base roll member
- Must have earned a high school diploma or GED
- Must not have earned a college degree and must have completed no more than 150 semester credits or 210 quarter credits
- Must enroll in at least six credit hours of eligible coursework
- Must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.25 after the first term of the trade program
- Must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Application Process
- Create an American Indian Services account or log in to an existing account
- Complete the online scholarship application
- Upload a recent photograph of yourself
- Submit documentation verifying tribal enrollment or qualifying Native heritage
- Prepare and upload a minimum one-page, double-spaced essay describing your background, educational goals, tribal connections, challenges, and career plans
- Upload your tuition billing statement or an approved alternative documenting tuition costs
- Submit your most current unofficial or official transcript
- Complete all application requirements and submit your application by the appropriate deadline
- If selected, submit the required thank-you letter before scholarship funds are released to your school
For more than 40 years, American Indian Services has awarded scholarships to American Indian/Alaska Native students from member institutions. Since 2005, more than 35,000 Native students have benefited from these funds. We will award Trade School Scholarships for those who have applied and are eligible.
