The Navajo Nation offers various scholarships to support its enrolled members in achieving their educational goals. This article outlines the requirements for these scholarships, focusing on the Chief Manuelito Scholarship Program and the broader offerings from the Office of Navajo Nation Scholarships and Financial Assistance (ONNSFA).
Overview of Navajo Nation Scholarships
The Navajo Nation provides financial assistance through scholarships aimed at both undergraduate and graduate students. The ONNSFA administers these scholarships, which include various funding sources such as federal grants, Navajo Nation funds, and corporate funds. In recent years, the ONNSFA has awarded millions of dollars to thousands of students.
Key Scholarships
- Chief Manuelito Scholarship Program:
- Maximum Award: $7,000
- Eligibility: Enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, attending a regionally accredited institution.
- Requirements: Complete a FAFSA, submit a Certificate of Indian Blood, and take a Navajo Government course.
- Graduate Scholarships:
- Award Amount: $2,500 to $5,000 per term.
- Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing master’s, doctorate, medical, law, or veterinary degrees.
Application Deadlines
- Annual Deadline: June 25 for the academic year.
- Winter/Spring Deadline: November 25.
Eligibility Requirements
General Requirements
To qualify for scholarships from the Navajo Nation, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Enrollment: Must be an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation.
- Education Level: Must be a full-time student at an accredited institution (two-year or four-year college).
Specific Requirements for Chief Manuelito Scholarship
- Certificate of Indian Blood: Must provide documentation verifying Navajo enrollment.
- FAFSA: Completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is mandatory.
- Navajo Government Course: Completion of a course related to Navajo governance is required.
Graduate Scholarship Requirements
- Enrollment Status: Must be a full-time graduate student.
- Academic Performance: A minimum GPA of 3.00 for most graduate programs, with specific requirements for medical, veterinary, and law students.
Required Documentation
Common Documentation for All Scholarships
- Application Form: Completed application form for the specific scholarship.
- Certificate of Indian Blood: Official documentation verifying enrollment in the Navajo Nation.
- Official Transcripts: Sealed transcripts from all prior educational institutions.
- Financial Need Analysis: Submission of the FAFSA and related financial documents.
- Letter of Admission: Acceptance letter from the institution the applicant will attend.
Additional Documentation for Graduate Students
- Graduate Admission Letters: Two letters indicating full admission status from the graduate college and degree program.
- Graduation Degree Checklist: A list of courses required for the degree, including expected graduation dates and advisor signatures.
Application Process
Steps to Apply
- Visit the ONNSFA Website: Access the official website to begin the application process.
- Choose Application Type: Select either the full-time or part-time application based on your enrollment status.
- Submit Required Documents: Ensure all required documents are submitted by the deadline.
Important Notes
- Application Availability: The online application opens annually on March 15 and closes on June 25.
- Document Submission: Documents must be submitted to the ONNSFA office, either by mail or in person.
Scholarship Management and Renewal
Renewal Requirements
Scholarships are typically renewable, provided that students maintain the necessary academic performance and meet all program requirements.
- Undergraduate Students: Must maintain a minimum GPA (usually a C average) and submit official transcripts after each term.
- Graduate Students: Typically required to maintain a GPA of 3.00 or higher.
Repayment Policies
Students may be subject to repayment if they fail to meet academic standards or withdraw from courses funded by the scholarship.
Conclusion
The Navajo Nation offers valuable scholarship opportunities to its members, aimed at promoting higher education and professional development. Understanding the specific requirements and application processes is vital for prospective students to take full advantage of these resources. By meeting the eligibility criteria and submitting the necessary documentation, students can secure financial assistance to support their educational journeys.
Summary Table of Scholarship Requirements
| Scholarship Name | Maximum Award | Eligibility Criteria | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief Manuelito Scholarship | $7,000 | Enrolled members of the Navajo Nation, FAFSA, CIB, course | June 25 annually |
| Graduate Scholarships | $2,500-$5,000 | Graduate students in specific fields, GPA requirements | June 25 annually |
This overview serves as a guide for students interested in applying for scholarships through the Navajo Nation, highlighting the importance of preparation and adherence to application guidelines.
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