Students
Thriving communities
Arizona State University is home to one of the largest Indigenous student populations in the nation, with more than 4,000 American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian undergraduate and graduate students across its campuses.
Indigenous students at ASU represent Tribal Nations from Arizona, as well as some of the 575 federally recognized Tribal Nations in the United States and Indigenous communities globally. As ASU expands its international presence, our commitment extends to supporting Indigenous students wherever they originate — while remaining grounded in respectful relationships with Tribal Nations in Arizona.
Our goal is to ensure students not only enroll — but also thrive academically, culturally and professionally.
Student success and support
American Indian Student Support Services provides dedicated academic and student success support for Indigenous students at ASU.
AISSS works in coordination with campus partners to ensure Indigenous students have access to the resources, networks and support needed to graduate and lead.
Indigenous students seeking academic support, financial guidance, career pathways or leadership opportunities are encouraged to connect with AISSS.
Support includes:
Academic advising and mentoring
Financial aid guidance and Tribal funding navigation
Graduate and professional school preparation
Career readiness and professional development
Cultural engagement and community connection
Scholarships and financial resources
Indigenous students access funding through a combination of Tribal support, institutional scholarships and national programs.
Tribal education funding
Many Tribal Nations provide direct educational assistance to enrolled citizens.
Financial needs analysis
ASU’s Financial Aid Office assists students in completing required forms for Tribal scholarship eligibility.
Arizona resident tuition eligibility
Enrolled members of Tribal Nations with reservation lands in Arizona may qualify for resident tuition rates.
Scholarship Universe
ASU’s centralized scholarship platform for internal and external awards, including Indigenous-specific opportunities.
American Indian Studies Scholarship Fund
Dedicated support for students enrolled in the American Indian Studies program.
Academic and career pathways
ASU supports Indigenous students pursuing careers that strengthen Tribal Nations, public institutions and global industries.
American Indian Nation Governance Certificate
Open to students of any major, this certificate prepares future leaders to understand and support Tribal sovereignty and self-determination. Coursework examines Tribal governance structures, federal Indian law and policy, and ethical engagement across governments and institutions.
Students develop the ability to:
- Understand legal frameworks affecting Native Nations
- Analyze contemporary issues in Tribal governance
- Engage responsibly across Tribal, state and federal systems
Learn more about the American Indian Nation Governance Certificate
Construction in Indian Country®
Developed with Tribal guidance and the Del E. Webb School of Construction, Construction in Indian Country strengthens workforce pathways in infrastructure development, construction management and project leadership on Tribal lands.
The initiative prepares students for careers in construction, engineering, planning, business and law — equipping them to lead Tribally sponsored projects that reflect cultural integrity and long-term community impact.
Additional pathways
- STEM Pathways (ASU–Berkeley Lab Partnership) — Research internships and mentorship for Indigenous students pursuing science and technology careers.
- Preparing Educators for Arizona’s Indian Communities — Developing educators committed to serving Tribal communities.
Indigenous students may also explore advanced leadership development opportunities through the nationally recognized Indigenous Leadership Academy.
K–12 pathways to ASU
Through Access ASU and the Office of the Provost, Arizona State University partners with Tribal communities and schools to strengthen college readiness and early exposure to higher education.
These initiatives support students and families in navigating admissions, scholarships, academic preparation and campus engagement — building sustained pathways from community to university.
Student organizations and leadership
Indigenous student organizations cultivate belonging, leadership and community engagement across ASU’s campuses.
Organizations include:
- Alpha Pi Omega Sorority, Inc. (Iota Chapter)
- American Indian Art Association
- American Indian Graduate Student Association
- American Indian Science and Engineering Society
- American Indian Social Work Association
- Construction in Indian Country Student Organization
- Native American Business Organization
Explore all ASU student organizations and find one that is right for you
Signature events and community engagement
Indigenous student life at ASU is rooted in cultural relevancy and leadership growth opportunities.
Ms. and Mr. Indigenous ASU serves as the official goodwill ambassador court, representing Native students and promoting academic excellence, cultural engagement and community leadership.
The annual ASU Pow Wow and other cultural gatherings provide opportunities for celebration, connection and campus-wide visibility.
Explore all upcoming events
Admissions
Our Admissions team provides dedicated support, personalized recruitment guidance, and specialized programs for Indigenous students. Connect directly with our representatives, explore academic pathways, and start your ASU application today!
Associate Director
Indigenous Student Recruitment & Strategic Initiatives
Coordinator Senior
Northern Arizona
Engage with us
Get in touch to request a meeting or consultation, discuss research and partnership opportunities, invite ASU to your community, connect with university leadership, or share your questions or feedback.