Pursuing higher education often comes with big financial hurdles, especially for Native American students in New Mexico. Many face barriers that make college or trade school seem out of reach. The Native American Scholarship Program 2026-2027, offered by the New Mexico Gas Company, steps in to help by providing direct financial aid to eligible students.
About the Native American Scholarship Program
The Native American Scholarship Program, or NASP, supports Native American students across New Mexico. Started in 2011, it has given out more than $524,000 to 265 students from 20 Pueblos, Tribes, and Nations in the state. New Mexico Gas Company runs the program to help build stronger Indigenous communities through education.
This aid goes to students who show drive and a plan for their future. It covers a range of paths, from college degrees to hands-on training.
What Sets NASP Apart
Most scholarships demand high grades, letters from teachers, or certain majors. NASP skips those rules to open doors wider. Key features include no minimum GPA needed, no recommendation letters, any field of study allowed, and support for both full-time and part-time students.
Trade schools and technical programs count too. This setup lets students chase careers that fit their goals, whether in business, health care, or skilled trades.
Scholarship Amount and Numbers
For 2026-2027, the program awards 20 scholarships worth $3,000 each. New students and those renewing can apply. Renewal works for up to three years in a row.
Funds go straight to winners for costs like tuition, books, or supplies. The exact number of new awards depends on renewal requests each year.
Who Is Eligible
To qualify, you must live in New Mexico and be an enrolled member of a New Mexico Pueblo, Tribe, or Nation. You also need to fit one of these groups:
- High school senior about to graduate
- GED holder
- Current student in post-secondary school
Approved schools include universities for associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degrees, plus trade schools and technical training. Any major works.
Application Timeline
Mark these dates:
- Applications open: March 30, 2026
- Deadline: May 1, 2026
- Results announced: Late June 2026
Winners get checks at an awards banquet. If you miss it, they mail the award.
How to Apply and Get Selected
Submit online through the New Mexico Gas Company NASP site. The NASP Committee reviews all entries. They check tribal enrollment with your tribe’s records.
For renewals, send proof of enrollment and an essay on your progress. The process keeps things fair and focused on commitment.
What Winners Must Do
Award recipients should update the program on their school progress. Stay in good standing at your school. Apply again for renewal if needed.
New Mexico Gas Company may use your name and photo to share the program’s success. This helps spread the word about the support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Native American Scholarship Program?
You must live in New Mexico and be an enrolled member of a New Mexico Pueblo, Tribe, or Nation. Eligible groups include high school seniors, GED holders, and current post-secondary students.
What is the scholarship amount and how many are available?
The program awards 20 scholarships worth $3,000 each for 2026-2027. New students and renewals up to three years can apply.
What are the application dates?
Applications open on March 30, 2026, with a deadline of May 1, 2026. Results come out in late June 2026.
Does the program require a minimum GPA or recommendation letters?
No, there is no minimum GPA needed, no recommendation letters required, and any field of study is allowed for full-time or part-time students.
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