What does AISL mean in SCHOOLS

To be eligible for AISL, applicants must be enrolled members of a federally or state recognized tribe or Alaska Native Descendant. Applicants must also be accepted at an accredited institution of higher education with the intention of pursuing a degree.

Through the AISL program, recipients can receive up to $5,000 per year for tuition and fees associated with attending an accredited institution of higher education. Additionally, participants may receive grants, federal work-study opportunities, internships, scholarships and other aid depending on their individual circumstances.

The entire application process usually takes six weeks from start to finish after your complete application is received by the Office of Indian Education Programs (OIEP). This includes notification to awardee/s about their eligibility status and subsequent awards if applicable.

Applicants must submit a completed Application Form along with all supporting documents including but not limited to proof of tribal membership or ancestry; current transcripts; copies of any college acceptance letters; proof of US citizenship; tribal enrollment letter; letters from faculty or staff validating applicant's leadership abilities; copies of any letters confirming volunteer service activities; family contribution statements; income verification statements such as W-2 forms or pay stubs; financial aid award letters from universities and colleges attended previously; etc.

Once you have been selected as an awardee under the AISL program, you will be eligible to reapply each year until you have completed your degree requirements. Reapplication requires submission of all pertinent documents listed above as well as updated information regarding intended major/degree objectives and financial need.

Yes. After being accepted into the program, participants are assigned mentors who help them stay focused academically and navigate college life successfully while providing support throughout their educational journey. Mentors provide guidance on goal setting strategies and offer resources such as tutoring services, job search tips, stress management techniques, etc., when needed.

Yes! There are several other programs available that provide support to indigenous students in pursuit of their higher education goals including Bureau Indian Education funded programs such as New Beginnings High School Diploma Program (NBHSDP) which provides Delegated tribes with opportunities for high school completion diplomas among many others!