APPLY TO NWICF SCHOLARSHIPS
Apply for NWICF Scholarships Online!
We’re excited to make applying for NWICF scholarships easier than ever. With our new online application through AwardSpring, you can apply in one place for all NWICF scholarship opportunities for which you may be eligible. The application typically takes 20–30 minutes to complete when you have the necessary information and documents gathered in advance. You can also save your application and return to it later, giving you the flexibility to complete it at your own pace.
PRIORITY DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 28, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
ABOUT YOUR APPLICATION
Before you Start Your Application
Before You Start Your Scholarship Application
Having some of the following information and documents available will help you complete your application more easily. You may not need every item listed below. Some questions and required documents will depend on your responses and the scholarships for which you may qualify. *See helpful tips
Personal Information
- Basic contact information
- NWIC email address (if applicable)
- Cell phone number
- A current photo/headshot*
Education Information
- NWIC Student ID number (required for NWIC students)
- Current GPA (if applicable)
- Credits completed (if applicable)
- Expected graduation or program completion date
Financial Information
- FAFSA or WASFA information (if completed)
- Student Aid Index (SAI), if available
- Information about other educational funding, including:
- Scholarships
- Grants
- Tribal higher education funding
- Other financial support
- Information about financial circumstances that may affect your ability to attend college
Scholarship Eligibility Information
- Tribal affiliation information (if applicable)
- Tribal enrollment or verification documentation (if applicable)*
Application Materials
- Essay response*
- Thank-you letter to scholarship donors*
- Letter of reference*
Board of Director’s Scholarship for NWIC and NWICF employees
Addition information is required including:
- Letter of support from your NWIC or NWICF supervisor
- Copies of previously earned degree(s) or transcripts showing degree completion
- Proof of current enrollment in your graduate program
- Documentation demonstrating satisfactory academic progress (such as an unofficial transcript, degree audit, or advisor progress report)
- Current tuition invoice, billing statement, or student account statement
- Current résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
- Optional: Cover letter
COMPLETING YOUR APPLICATION
Helpful Tips for Completing your Application
Helpful Tips for Completing Your Application
Start Early & Gather Your Materials
Give yourself enough time to gather information, request documents, and thoughtfully complete your application. Review the “Before You Start Your Scholarship Application” checklist and gather the information and materials you may need before beginning.
You do not need to complete the application all at once. Some questions and required materials may depend on your responses and the scholarships for which you may qualify.
Current Photo/Headshot
Student photos may be included in reports shared with scholarship donors. A headshot is preferred, but other photos are acceptable. Choose a photo where you are the main focus, your face is clearly visible, and the image is clear. Photos of you wearing Native dress or traditional regalia are welcome.
When choosing a photo:
- Choose a photo where you are the main focus.
- Ask someone else to take the photo whenever possible.
- Make sure your face is clearly visible and well lit.
- Avoid blurry photos, sunglasses, or images where your face is difficult to see.
Tribal Affiliation Documentation
Some scholarships may require documentation to verify tribal affiliation or eligibility. Acceptable documentation may include:
- Tribal enrollment card
- Tribal enrollment verification letter
- Official documentation confirming enrollment or affiliation
- Birth certificates or other documentation demonstrating lineage
- Documentation for a qualifying parent, grandparent, or ancestor (when applicable)
Essay Response Your essay is an opportunity to share your story, experiences, goals, and the impact scholarship support may have on your educational journey. Your response should be 250-750 words. This is approximately 1-2 pages double spaced.
Consider preparing your essay in a separate document before entering it into the application. You may want to include:
- Experiences that have shaped who you are
- Your educational and career goals
- Challenges you have overcome
- How this scholarship will support your journey
Your essay does not need to be perfect. Reviewers are interested in understanding your experiences, goals, and perspective.
Thank-You Letter to Scholarship Donors
A thank-you letter is required as part of your application. Your letter is an opportunity to express appreciation to the donors who make scholarships possible and explain how their support will help you reach your academic, career, or professional goals.
Your thank-you letter should be 500 words or less.
Letter of Reference
Submit one letter of reference from someone who can speak to your character, accomplishments, commitment, work ethic, or potential for success.
Consider asking someone who knows you well and can provide specific examples about your strengths and goals. Give your reference provider enough time to prepare a thoughtful letter.
Review Before You Submit
Before you submit your application each section in the menu bar to the left must be marked as “Completed” before you can submit your application.
Ask for Support
You do not have to complete the application alone. If you have questions or need assistance, reach out for support.
Need Help?
We are here to support you through the scholarship application process. If you have questions or need help completing your application, please reach out for assistance.
We also encourage you to attend a NWIC Scholarship Jam session, where you can receive support with your application, ask questions, and get help strengthening your essay and other application materials.
What to Expect After You Submit
- Application Review – The Foundation reviews your application and confirms required information is complete.
- Scholarship Matching & Review – Your application is reviewed for scholarship opportunities that align with your eligibility, goals, and circumstances.
- Award Decisions – Scholarship selections are finalized based on eligibility criteria and available funding.
- Award Notification – Students selected for scholarships receive information about their award and next steps.
- Award Processing – The Foundation coordinates with NWIC to support award processing.
Applications are accepted year-round. Review and notification timelines may vary.
MoreBuilding People. Building Nations.
Your gift today can make the crucial difference. The main reason Native students do not complete their education is due to the financial hardships associated with getting their degree.
