Native Americans to receive tuition break at ISU

Idaho’s State Board of Education has approved a pilot program that will give federally-recognized Native American tribal members in Idaho a $60 per credit hour tuition break beginning this fall. The discounted rate includes tuition, but other class fees still apply.

Meeting in Idaho Falls Thursday, the board said it took the action at the request of Idaho State University. Members of the Shoshone-Bannock, Nez Perce, Shoshone-Paiute, Kootenai and Coeur d’Alene Tribes are eligible at ISU.

“We support the state’s efforts to improve access to higher education and this decision will make a difference for many in our state,” said ISU President Kevin Satterlee.

Students must be seeking a degree, maintain satisfactory academic progress, and apply for federal student financial aid through the FAFSA program to be eligible.

“We are working with the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes to update our memorandum of understanding and build upon our existing relationship,” said ISU Provost and Executive Vice President Laura Woodworth-Ney. “Today’s announcement helps to remove financial barriers to education for students in our Southeast Idaho community.”

For an Idaho student taking 12 credits, the cost of tuition is currently $3,710 per semester at ISU. Under the new program, Native American students will pay $720.