Browse below to find education resources, opportunities and events, and general education news.
K-12 Opportunities | Higher Education Opportunities | Financial Resources | Education News
K-12 Opportunities
University of Iowa, Iowa First Nations Summer Program
The Iowa First Nations Program (IFN) provides Native American student high school students the opportunity to live on campus, experience the university setting, explore majors, learn more about the Native American culture, and gain an appreciation for the variety of opportunities at Iowa. P
This program is free for participants; Lodging, meals, and camp activities are provided at no cost to the student upon admission into the program. Participants will be high school students in good standing who are entering the 9th, 10th, 11th or 12th grade and who have heritage backgrounds that are based on Native American culture. Participants must be affiliated with one of the 67 tribes associated with the Iowa, Kickapoo, Menominee, Miami, Missouri (Otoe), Ojibwa (Chippewa), Omaha, Otoe (Missouri), Ottawa (Odawa), Potawatomi, Sac and Fox (Sauk, Meskwaki), Sioux, or Winnebago (Ho-Chunk) nations. Deadline to apply is May 8, 2024. Learn more >
U.N.M.C. uBeats (UNMC & UNO Building Excellence in Academics Through STEM)
uBEATS offers a comprehensive array of E-Learning modules covering topics such as cancer, genetics, microbiology and pathology, pharmacology, public health, academic success, and healthcare careers. These modules are thoughtfully designed to complement existing curricula for grades 6 – 12, enriching students’ educational experiences with supplemental material beyond the classroom. Learn more >
S.M.I.L.E. (Student Mentoring with Immersive Learning and Enrichment) Healthcare Pathway Program
Deadline: March 15, 2024
Only four (4) American Indian/Alaska Native students will be selected for this all-expense paid immersion program. S.M.I.L.E. Healthcare Pathway Program will take place July 7 – 12, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee. The program expands each year to diverse colleges and universities. This summer program introduces students to careers in oral health, including: dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, or dental office administrators. For more info, contact: saidentistry@gmail.com
Office of Indian Education Student Artist Competition (PreK-High School)
Deadline: March 4, 2024
We are excited to announce this year’s Student Artist Competition (SAC)! The 2024 competition theme is “My Native Language.” Entries for the SAC should relate to the theme and show the importance of education for Native youth.
For complete SAC guidelines and information on how to enter, visit tinyurl.com/OIESAC.
Khan Academy
Free practice exercises, instructional videos, and a personalized learning dashboard empower learners to study at their own pace in and outside of the classroom. Click here to sign up.
CollegeNOW!
CollegeNow! is a program specifically designed for high school students to jump-start their college education. Students enroll into sections taught by Metropolitan Community College faculty on campus or online. Begin the pursuit of an associate degree and/or transfer MCC college credit to other colleges and universities with CollegeNow! Click here for more information.
Nebraska Summer Learning Programs
From the state of Nebraska Department of Education: https://www.education.ne.gov/tl/summer-learning-programs/
Higher Education Opportunities
NUCOR Steel Nebraska Internship Opportunities
For summer 2025. Deadline to apply: 10/20/24.
| Name | Type | Deadline to apply | Application Link |
| Electro- Mechanical | Internship | 10/20/2024 | Link |
| Computer Engineering | Internship | 10/20/2024 | Link |
| Electrical Engineering | Internship | 10/20/2024 | Link |
| Mechanical Engineering | Internship | 10/20/2024 | Link |
| Accounting | Internship | 10/20/2024 | Link |
| Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) | Internship | 10/20/2024 | Link |
| Process Engineering | Internship | 10/20/2024 | Link |
Native American Tuition Waiver: United Tribes Technical College
Click here for more information.
- Enrolled in a federally recognized tribe
- Full-time, degree-seeking student
- GPA of 2.0 or greater on most recent college transcript
Metropolitan Community College Gap Workforce Events
Students interested in the Insurance Producer or Fiber Optics Technician programs are encouraged to sign up for a Gap Workforce Training Information Session. Sessions are ongoing through the end of the year. Learn about funding opportunities, the application process, and more. Click here to sign up.
Train Scholars Project
University of Oklahoma
Texas A&M University
The TRAIN Scholars Project, a collaborative partnership between the University of Oklahoma and Texas A&M University aims to develop competencies necessary to engage in rigorous applied research to advance the field of special education transition. TRAIN Scholars will leave their doctoral programming ready to:
1) fill higher education positions with highly qualified Ph.D.s with expertise in special education, transition, and inclusive education,
2) prepare educators (i.e., pre- and in-service teachers) to instruct and provide services to
3) children with high-needs disabilities, and improve post-school outcomes of individuals with high-need disabilities.
NET Nebraska Education
Virtual Learning Library, Internships and training, and other educational resources. Visit site >
Education and Training Services from NEworks
Visit website
AISES Indigenous Knowledge Research Program
AISES partnering with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Tribal Relations highlights Indigenous Knowledge research. The Indigenous Knowledge Research Program encourages high school, college, and graduate students to create and carry out research projects that combine Indigenous Knowledge (IK) with Western science and engineering. Open to all high school, undergraduate, and graduate students who are interested in or are currently facilitating an Indigenous Knowledge research project.
Learn more and apply >
Financial Resources
Universal FAFSA Policy
Nebraska is one of 15 states that passed a law mandating that all high school seniors complete the FAFSA whether they plan to attend college or not.
Starting with the class of 2025, Nebraska law requires all public high school students to complete and submit a FAFSA (or actively opt out) as a graduation requirement. This is known as Universal FAFSA.
- Why does this law exist?
Universal FAFSA ensures that all Nebraska seniors complete the FAFSA, unlocking federal financial aid and encouraging them to consider further education beyond high school. - Why is completing the FAFSA a graduation requirement?
Completing the FAFSA informs students about their financial aid options, enabling them to make smarter decisions about their postsecondary education. - How will this benefit Nebraska students?
In 2022, half of Nebraska graduates didn’t file the FAFSA, missing out on an estimated $23 million in aid. This initiative helps reach the goal of 70% of Nebraskans earning a diploma, degree, or industry credential by 2030. - Where can I direct questions about Universal FAFSA?
Contact the Nebraska Department of Education:
https://www.education.ne.gov/fafsa
FAFSA Tools
The 2025 FAFSA will open on December 1, 2024.
EducationQuest has a variety of free virtual resources available to help your seniors and their parents prepare for and complete the form.
- A variety of FAFSA Tools are available to help families through the process, including a FAFSA Checklist and FAFSA Demo.
- The WhyFAFSA webpage explains why students should complete the form.
- Watch a demo of 2024-25 FAFSA application
Resources for Student Loan Debt Repayment
If you are impacted and have student loans to repay, there are resources that may help you manage your repayment. Read more >
2023-24 Federal Pell Grant
The maximum Federal Pell Grant award is $7,395 for the 2023–24 award year (July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024). The amount an individual student may receive depends on a number of factors.
Learn more at: https://financialaidtoolkit.ed.gov/tk/
College Planning: Comparison of the SAT and ACT
Financial Aid Glossary
Gain a better understanding of financial aid terms. Read more >
Types of Student Loans
From debt.org Read more >
Community College Gap Assistance Program
https://ccpe.nebraska.gov/gapPE
Directory of Postsecondary Institutions in Nebraska
https://ccpe.nebraska.gov/directory-postsecondary-institutions-nebraska
University of Nebraska In-State Tuition for Tribal Members
Ponca Tribe of Nebraska members are eligible for in-state tuition if attending one of the University of Nebraska campuses.
Nebraska Promise
Eligible students can begin taking the first steps to being considered for the Nebraska Promise. You must be admitted and file the FAFSA before June 1 to qualify.
3. You’re All Done!
Eligible students are identified automatically after they are admitted to the university and submit the annual FAFSA to Nebraska. Remember, the deadline is June 1.
What the Nebraska Promise Covers
If you are eligible, the Nebraska Promise will cover all your tuition costs, up to 30 credit hours per academic year (up to 15 credits per semester), after Pell funds and any other grants and/or scholarships are taken into account.
The Nebraska Promise program is a commitment to cover tuition expenses. The program does not guarantee that additional costs including fees, books, housing and meals or transportation will be covered. However, the Nebraska Promise is just one of many financial aid options available. Those who receive the Nebraska Promise may also receive aid beyond the cost of tuition through additional grants and scholarships.
California College Promise Grant
The California College Promise Grant is a form of CA State aid that waives the enrollment fee ($46/unit) for eligible CA resident students. The primary form of application for this aid is the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Students who complete the FASFA will have the best chance of qualifying for the California College Promise Grant.
How does the California College Promise Grant work?
You do not receive an electronic funds transfer or a debit card; instead your enrollment fees are waived after registration activity. You are responsible for paying any and all fees remaining which include the Health Fee, College Service Charge, material fees, and parking permit.
Your California College Promise Grant will be posted on the college’s registration fee screen and will be valid for Coastline Community College, Golden West College, and Orange Coast College. If you paid your enrollment fees before the California College Promise Grant was applied to your account, the Enrollment Center / Registration Office will complete a refund of those fees.
Links for application:
Coastline College (CODE: 01356)
Golden West College (CODE: 001206)
Orange Coast College (CODE:001250)
Higher Education News
FAFSA to Open December 1
The U.S. Department of Education has announced that the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025-26 academic year will now open on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024.
Pell Grants Updates
Pell Grants are now available for incarcerated students in Nebraska and other states.
- Pell Grants: These are federal financial aid programs designed to help eligible students pay for college or vocational school. They do not need to be repaid, making them a valuable resource for students seeking higher education.
- Incarcerated Students: Historically, incarcerated individuals were ineligible for Pell Grants. However, recent changes have expanded access to education for those behind bars.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Restoration of Pell Grant Eligibility:
- In July 2023, the Department of Education officially restored Pell Grant eligibility for incarcerated students. This decision followed a nearly three-decade ban that had limited educational opportunities for people in prison1.
- The ban had previously prevented incarcerated individuals from accessing Pell Grants while serving their sentences.
- Prison Education Programs (PEPs):
- To receive a Pell Grant, incarcerated students must enroll in an eligible prison education program (PEP). These programs are specifically designed to provide higher education opportunities within correctional institutions.
- PEPs offer courses and degree programs, allowing students to pursue associate’s or bachelor’s degrees while incarcerated.
- Benefits of College in Prison:
- College programs in prison have several positive effects:
- Safer Environments: Education contributes to a safer atmosphere within correctional facilities.
- Employment Opportunities: Having a college education increases the likelihood of securing well-paying jobs upon release.
- Reduced Recidivism: Education decreases the chances of returning to prison after release.
- At least 760,000 incarcerated individuals are estimated to be eligible for Pell Grants, which can significantly benefit both students and their communities1.
- College programs in prison have several positive effects:
- California’s Example:
- California’s Pelican Bay State Prison hosts one of the first bachelor’s degree programs approved by the Department of Education to offer Pell Grants to incarcerated students. The program began in the fall of 2024.
- Cal Poly Humboldt’s bachelor’s degree in communications program is taught in person at Pelican Bay, providing a campus-like experience for students inside the prison1.
- Nationwide Impact:
- While California leads the way, other states are also working on implementing PEPs and expanding access to Pell Grants for incarcerated students.
- These efforts aim to transform lives, reduce recidivism rates, and promote education as a pathway to rehabilitation.
In summary, incarcerated students in Nebraska and across the United States now have the opportunity to access Pell Grants through approved prison education programs. This change represents a significant step forward in promoting education and positive outcomes for those in prison.
Nebraska passes universal FAFSA
Starting with the 2024-25 academic year, Nebraska will require seniors in public high schools to complete a FAFSA. As with most other states, parents, guardians, and students who are emancipated or over the age of 19 can waive a student out of this requirement. Other states have adopted similar legislation to help ensure graduating seniors know what financial aid may be available to them to attend college.
Little Priest Tribal College Transfer Agreements
Little Priest Tribal College will accept credits from institutions accredited by the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges/Higher Learning Commission or other regional higher education accrediting associations as they apply to core and degree requirements at Little Priest Tribal College. Credits transferred are not calculated into GPA. Learn more >
FAFSA Simplification Act
The FAFSA Simplification Act (FSA) was passed by Congress as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, and the Department of Education has announced that the Better FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) will be fully implemented for the 2024-25 school year. According to the Department of Education, “the Better FAFSA is a simpler and shorter form and will increase eligibility for Pell Grants and reduce verification, allowing more students access to financial aid.”
Nebraska Indian Community College
Earn your Bachelor degree in Business Administration and Tribal Nation Building
Tuition: $1 per credit hour
For more information: 844-440-6422 or www.theNICC.edu
University of Nebraska Announces Free Tuition for Qualifying Students
The Nebraska Promise program covers undergraduate tuition at the University of Nebraska’s four campuses (UNK, UNL, UNMC and UNO) and its two-year technical college (NCTA).
Tuition is covered for students who meet academic qualifications and have a family income of $60,000 or less (Adjusted Gross Income/AGI) or are Pell Grant-eligible. Learn more here.
Nebraska Indian Community College
NICC is waiving tuition for high school students enrolling in dual-credit courses.
Peru State College
The Nebraska State Colleges Tuition Guarantee ensures that Pell-qualified Nebraska students can attend Peru State College tuition-free. Qualified first-time freshman and transfer students pursuing an undergraduate degree will receive a combination of federal grants, state or private grants, college remissions, or College Foundation scholarships to fill any tuition gap left after the Pell Grant.
Western Iowa Tech: Free Tuition and Training for High-Demand Jobs
Free tuition is made possible by the Last-Dollar Scholarship, a part of an initiative to help the state of Iowa fill high-demand jobs. Because finances can be a barrier to attending college, the Last-Dollar Scholarship covers the cost of tuition toward a diploma or Associate of Applied Science degree aligned with a high-need field. People like you are needed to keep Iowa competitive and ready for the future. Now a scholarship is available to help Iowa residents get the training needed for a good-paying, 21st century jobs.
Wayne State College Tuition Guarantee Program
The new Nebraska State Colleges Tuition Guarantee ensures Pell-qualified Nebraska students can attend Wayne State College tuition-free. The program takes effect in Fall 2021 and applies to returning and new undergraduate students.