Scholarship Applications.


The Cherokee Nation's College Resource Program awards scholarships to selected Cherokee Nation Tribal tribal Citizens citizens pursuing degrees at a colleges or university accredited with Carnegie units. To apply for these funds, new and continuing students must submit a complete application packet to the College Resource office on or before specified deadline. All documents must arrive together.  

The purpose of the Cherokee Nation College Resources Program includes accomplishing three desired outcomes: 

1) strengthen the sovereignty of the Cherokee Nation; 
2) increase the capacity of its citizens; and 
3) promote the language and culture of the Cherokee Nation.

The scholarship selection process is designed to achieve these outcomes. Future scholarship applications may provide a preference for students who have demonstrated accomplishments relating to the desired outcomes.

The Cherokee Promise scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance to low-income Cherokee students pursuing higher education. The Cherokee Nation Human Services and Education Services Groups have partnered to develop and administer the Cherokee Promise Scholarships. Please contact your Human Services area office for further information and for specific applications dates for each year.

If you have questions or need assistance completing either the Cherokee Nation Scholarship Application or the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), feel free to contact the College Resources office at
918-453-5465 or Toll Free: 1-800-256-0761, selecting option 5 from the voice menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:  When & where is the scholarship application available?
A:  The applications are available by March 1,st of each year.

Q:  Can I apply for the spring semester if I don’t get my application in by the original deadline?
A:  It depends on the availability of remaining funds.

Q:  What other types of funding is are available through Higher Education for college?
A:  The Cherokee Promise Scholarship provides financial assistance to low income Cherokee students pursuing higher education. The Cherokee Nation Education and Human Services Groups have partnered to develop and administer this scholarship. 

Q:  Are high school seniors concurrently enrolled in college courses eligible for the Higher Education Scholarship?  
A:  No. Students must wait until they have graduated high school to be eligible to apply for the scholarship. Seniors can apply during their last semester of high school.

Q:  Are students who attend a vocational technical school eligible for the Higher Education Scholarship?
A:  No. Students seeking a license, training certificate or Associate of Applied Science degree are not eligible.  Students may contact the Cherokee Nation Career Services office for more information at 918-453-5555.