people standing a circle watching a presentation outside of the Payne Family Native American Center

American Indian Student Services

Paying for your UM Education

Native American students fund college through family support, grants, scholarships, loans, work, and tribal aid. Submit the FAFSA after applying to UM—ideally by December 1—to receive financial aid. UM also offers the Montana American Indian Tuition Waiver and various scholarships.

 

Scholarships

Scholarships help cover college costs and don’t need to be repaid. Apply early for the best chances, and visit our scholarship page to explore more options.

 

Tribal Higher Education

The Higher Education Grant Program provides extra financial support to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing associate or bachelor’s degrees. Contact your Tribal Higher Education Department for details.

 

Loans

The types of loans available to you will depend on many variables. For more information about the individual types of loans available, visit the Financial Aid Office Loans page.

Student Employment

Students receive work-study funds only if they secure a work-study job, with pay earned through wages. Jobs can be found through departments or UM’s Handshake job board.

 

American Indian Tuition Waiver

To qualify for the American Indian Tuition Waiver a student must meet all of the following:

  • Be one quarter (1/4) degree of Indian blood and/or be an enrolled member of a state-recognized or federally recognized Indian tribe located within the boundaries of the state of Montana.
  • Be classified as a Montana resident
  • Have demonstrated financial need each year of enrollment as determined by the FAFSA

Blood quantum and/or enrollment status can be documented with a CIB (Certificate of Indian Blood) letter or card; Tribal Enrollment Card; Form letter(s) documenting descendency (birth certificate) that equal ¼ or more; and document of parent (grandparent) enrollment and/or degree of blood.

To apply, complete the American Indian Student Tuition Waiver Application and submit it to the Financial Aid Office along with blood quantum and/or enrollment status.

Grizzly Promise

The Grizzly Promise places college within financial reach and reflects UM’s commitment to an accessible and affordable education for all. 

If you’re from a family with an income of $50,000 or less, UM is dedicated to making sure your tuition is covered so you can attend University of Montana tuition-free.

The Grizzly Promise funds up to four years, or eight semesters, of UM tuition and fees. The financial assistance covering your tuition will be made up of a combination of scholarships, grants, waivers, and other institutional aid. Check Here for more information.