New York State Indian Aid (NYSIA) / Aid to Native Americans
New York State Education Department, Office of Indigenous Education
Up to $1,000 per semester (fall, spring, summer) for enrolled members of NY tribal nations and their children
- How much
- Up to $1,000 per semester (fall, spring, summer) full-time; part-time $85 per credit hour
- Who qualifies
- Enrolled member (or child of an enrolled member) of a NYS tribal nation: St. Regis Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca (Allegany, Cattaraugus), Tonawanda Band of Seneca, Tuscarora, Shinnecock, Unkechaug
- NYS resident; high school diploma or equivalency; enrolled in an approved program at an approved NYS institution; academic standing confirmed by the college (HESC lists a 2.0 minimum GPA and good standing).
- For students starting college, undergrads, trade school students
- When to apply
- Due December 31, 2026 Apply each semester: before July 15 (fall), Dec 31 (spring), May 20 (summer)
- How to apply
- Apply to NYSED's Office of Indigenous Education every semester via the NYSIA application portal (or mail the printable form)
- New students submit proof of high school graduation/GED, proof of tribal enrollment, and a college acceptance letter
- What you'll need
- state application + membership
- Last checked
- October 23, 2026, against the official page (nysed.gov), page 2 and page 3
The details
Grants for students in approved undergraduate degree or certificate programs (2- and 4-year; up to 5 years for 5-year baccalaureate programs) at approved NYS colleges, technical, nursing, business or trade schools. NYSED: up to $1,000 per semester (fall, spring and summer) for full-time students; part-time prorated at $85 per credit hour; subject to funding. HESC describes it as up to $2,000 per year ($1,000 per semester). Graduate study not covered. No age limit.
More money from New York
- Enhanced Tuition Award (ETA)Up to $6,000 for tuition expenses
- Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)$1,000 to $5,665
- NYS Scholarships for Academic Excellence$500 or $1,500 per year
- Excelsior ScholarshipCovers tuition at SUNY/CUNY (last-dollar, after other aid)
- Non-degree Part-Time Tuition Assistance Program (TAP)Prorated TAP award based on credits and actual tuition
Keep looking
- Answer a few questions to see every program you qualify for
- Nearby states: Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Vermont
- Federal aid and national scholarships (open to students in any state)
- The FAFSA in plain English (2027-28)
- Should I file the FAFSA if I don't think I'll qualify?
- FAFSA deadlines by state (2027-28)
- The FAFSA for parents: what you need to do
- How to save on textbooks: free, rented and cheaper options
We list programs; we don't decide who gets them. Always check the official page before you apply. Spot something wrong? Tell us.