Native Students

Native Students

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln recognizes the history and significance of how the plains tribes and cultures have shaped Nebraska. We foster and support Native culture through scholarships, academic programs, research, events and celebration of Native contributions.

Scholarships & In-State Tuition

Nebraska offers scholarships to promising students who identify and understand their Native American culture and seek to create opportunities to advance their community.

Native American Heritage Tuition Scholarship

$2,000 to full direct cost of attendance renewable for up to 4 years

Learn More about the Native American Heritage Scholarship

Nebraska Emerging Leaders Tuition Scholarship

$2,000 award renewable for up to 4 years

Learn More about the Nebraska Emerging Leaders Scholarship
Transfer Tribal College Tuition Scholarship

Full in-state tuition for up to 120 credit hours

Learn More about the Tribal College Scholarship
Ponca Tribe Scholarship

$4,800 maximum for members of the Nebraska Ponca Tribe

Learn More about the Ponca Tribe Scholarship
Chief Standing Bear Journey for Justice Scholarship

$1,500 for members of a recognized North American tribe

Learn More about the Chief Standing Bear Journey for Justice Scholarship
View All Scholarships

There are many other scholarships available for incoming students.

Learn More about all scholarships

Tribes Eligible for In-State Tuition

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers in-state tuition rates to enrolled members of the following 24 tribes listed below who have historical and present ties with Nebraska, whether they are residents of Nebraska or not.

Arapaho, Hidatsa, Missouria, Sac and Fox, Arikara, Jicarilla Apache, Omaha, Dakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne, Iowa, Otoe, Lakota Sioux, Southern Cheyenne, Kickapoo, Pawnee, Nakota Sioux, Comanche, Kiowa, Ponca, Santee Sioux, Crow, Mandan, Potawatomie, and Winnebago

Residency for In-state Tuition

Residency for In-State Tuition

Application

To be assured of your residency status, fill out the Application for Residency Classification for Tuition Purposes in your MyRED account. When you get to the Residency Categories section, look at category J for instructions.

View Residency Policy


Tribal Card

It is the responsibility of the student to submit a copy of his or her tribal card to the Office of Admissions if he/she wants to be considered a resident for tuition purposes. Students who do not provide this documentation will be determined to be nonresidents without further notification.


Questions?

If you have further questions about whether or not you qualify, please don't hesitate to contact us.


Find Community on Campus

Connecting with people in and out of the classroom is part of what makes college awesome. Plus getting involved with activities that interest you is a fun and fast way to feel at home on campus.

Native American Coalition

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln Native American Coalition (NAC) builds relationships and partnerships between the Nebraska Extension and Native American communities and organizations.

Learn More about the Native American Coalition

University of Nebraska Inter-Tribal Exchange (U.N.I.T.E)

U.N.I.T.E. promotes the progress and development of Native American students at Nebraska.

Learn More about the University of Nebraska Inter-Tribal Exchange (U.N.I.T.E)

Native American Heritage Celebrations

Events are held on campus during Native American Heritage Month and throughout the year.

Learn More about the Native American Heritage Celebrations

Recreation

Staying active enhances your college experience physically, mentally and socially.

Learn More about Recreation

Lincoln's Native Community

Lincoln is home to numerous organizations and events that celebrate and support Native Heritage.

Learn More

Broader Community

First Peoples of the Plains Exhibit

This gallery exhibit is located on the 3rd floor of the university's Morrill Hall.

Learn More

Indian Center, Inc.

The Indian Center is located near campus and provides:

  • Cultural engagement
  • Volunteer Opportunities
  • Annual Pow-wow
  • Mental Health Services
  • Health Initiatives
Learn More

Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs

Located a short distance from campus at the State Capitol, the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs is the state liaison between the four headquarter tribes of the Omaha, Ponca, Santee Sioux and Winnebago Tribes of Nebraska.

The Commission's activities include:

  • Standing Bear Breakfast and Symposium
  • Providing Scholarships
  • Leadership development
  • Advocacy for Tribes and Indian citizens in Nebraska
Learn More

Academic Programs

The Center for Great Plains Studies

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is home to this regional research and teaching program whose mission is to foster the study of the people and the environment of the Great Plains. Explore its Native art exhibitions, events highlighting Native heritage and academic majors.

Ethnic Studies

Examine factors that have affected your life and experiences, both past and present. A variety of majors, minors and courses are offered through the Institute of Ethnic Studies, including: Native American Studies, African American and African Studies, and U.S. Latina/o and Latin American studies.

We're Here to Help

If you have questions about studying at Nebraska, navigating the application process or resources for success, contact admissions@unl.edu or 402-472-2023.