Native American Graduate Student Funding

Native Americans are among the most underrepresented groups within higher education, including at UC Berkeley. As part of our commitment to expand diversity and make graduate education more affordable and accessible to students of all backgrounds, two new financial support opportunities will ensure that all newly accepted and current California Native American UC students can attend tuition free. Both opportunities will be available beginning fall 2022.

UC’s Native American Opportunity Plan ensures that in-state system-wide tuition and student services fees are fully covered for California students who are also enrolled in federally recognized Native American, American Indian, and Alaska Native tribes.

To be eligible for the Native American Opportunity Plan, students must be a current or newly admitted UC undergraduate, graduate or professional school student enrolled in a qualifying UC degree program; a California resident; and an enrolled member in a federally recognized Native American, American Indian and/or Alaska Native tribe. Details about this program can be found on UCOP’s Native American Opportunity Plan page.

A separate application is not needed to qualify for the Native American Opportunity Plan — UC will contact you directly. If you think you qualify or have questions, contact UC Berkeley’s American Indian Graduate Program at [email protected].

A separate application is not needed to qualify for the Native American Opportunity Plan — UC Berkeley will contact you directly. 

The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR)  Scholarship Fund covers tuition and mandatory fees both for non federally recognized California Native American UC students along with any added needed support for those from federally recognized tribes. Application details for this funding opportunity will be coming soon.

Together these two programs will allow all eligible California Native American students to attend with tuition and fees covered.

The American Indian Graduate Program (AIGP) is available to help prospective and current students and their families navigate this process. 

If you think you qualify or have questions, prospective and current students are encouraged to contact AIGP at [email protected]. AIGP is also available to assist with seeking additional external awards. 

Additional details and frequently asked questions provided by UC Berkeley’s Financial Aid and Scholarships Office and UCOP