Cherokee Nation Foundation now accepting 2026-27 scholarship applications

By Staff | Cherokee 411

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2026-27 academic year. The deadline to apply is Jan. 31, 2026.

The nonprofit organization awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships last year, the highest amount in its history.

“We are very proud to once again expand access to higher education for Cherokee Nation families,” said Janice Randall, executive director of the foundation. “Our foundation is a launchpad for students to reach further and achieve their educational goals. Each year we find new ways to help students thanks to the support of so many who see scholarship as an invaluable investment into economic and community growth.”

Applicants can access the application portal through the foundation’s website at cherokeenationfoundation.org/scholarships. Once students create an online profile, they can apply for multiple scholarships through a single platform.

This year’s offerings include several new opportunities, such as:

Luke Horton & Justin Phillips Memorial Scholarship — Open to Cherokee Nation citizens living inside or outside the reservation. The award supports students pursuing general education with an emphasis in information technology. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be enrolled full time in undergraduate, graduate or vocational programs.

Cherokee Nation Freedmen Descendants Scholarship — Open to Cherokee Nation citizens who may live in or outside the reservation. Applicants must maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.

The scholarship portal also provides students with updates and reminders about upcoming opportunities and deadlines.

All applications are evaluated based on academic performance, community service, and cultural involvement. Students may receive CNF scholarships in addition to funding through the Cherokee Nation College Resource Center or other organizations.

Scholarship awards will be announced in late spring.

For more information and a complete list of scholarships, visit cherokeenationfoundation.org/scholarships