Education
A division of the PITU Puow’wan Program
We believe that higher education is the key to success and will strengthen the preservation of the Paiute People. We believe that certifications, diplomas, and advanced degrees will increase self-sufficiency, broaden career opportunities, strengthen our sovereignty, improve the socioeconomic well-being of our communities, and pave the way for our future generations.
We are pleased to offer opportunities such as the PITU Tribal Scholarship in support of our members’ higher education success and to provide useful information on other resources for our people as they pursue their academic endeavors.
For information or assistance, please contact:
Roger Clark
Education Director
PHONE: 435-586-1112
EMAIL: rclark@pitu.gov
PITU Tribal Scholarship Application
As part of the PITU Education Department’s efforts to support our members in achieving their higher education goals, we are pleased to offer the PITU Tribal Scholarship. In order to be eligible for the PITU Tribal Scholarship, applicants (either new or continuing) must meet the following criteria:
- Must be an enrolled member of the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah or a descendant of an enrolled PITU Tribal Member with at least 1/4 native blood.
- Admitted and enrolled in an eligible postsecondary educational institution.
- Must have applied for federal financial aid, by means of FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid).
- Continuing applicants must be in good standing.
- Continuing applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.3 based on a 4.0 system or equivalent at the end of the last semester. If the applicant’s last semester GPA was below a 2.3, the applicant’s cumulative GPA of 2.3 based on a 4.0 system will be considered.
Make sure to check the “Scholarship Policies and Procedures” document linked below for more information on requirements, the application process, and application deadlines.
NOTE: As part of the application, you will be asked if you have a current ACH Authorization Form on file with PITU for direct deposit of your scholarship funds if approved. If you have not filled out this form or your banking information has changed, select the “No” response at the ACH Authorization section and fill out the direct deposit information.
Best Friends SeLena Benson Rocha Southern Paiute Scholarship
Presented in collaboration with Southern Utah University
Through a collaborative community partnership, the Best Friends Animal Society is offering scholarship opportunities for the Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians, Southern Paiute Tribes, and members of the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah (PITU) that include four scholarships for animal services professional development certificate courses.
Scholarships will be offered annually through 2026.
For more details about this exciting education-to-work program, click here!
Cobell Scholarship
The Cobell Scholarship was established as the result of the Cobell v. Salazar settlement. It is competitive, awarded on merit first then disbursed based on unmet need, non-renewable, and available to any post-secondary (after high school) individual who is: an enrolled member of a US Federally Recognized Tribe, enrolled in full-time study, and is degree seeking.
Applicants must plan to attend or be attending any nationally, regionally, and industry accredited non-profit, public or private institution. Applicants must be pursuing a vocational certificate or diploma, associate’s, bachelors, masters, doctoral or professional degree, or certificate.
For more information and to apply, click here.
Native Forward Scholarship Finder
To inspire excellence with impact, Native Forward provides:
- Holistic support services and resources to help Native students access and navigate the higher education avenue of their choice.
- A strong network of engaged alumni that fosters community and mentorship beyond the Native Forward organization.
- Advocacy of greater representation and visibility of Native communities.
- Trusted stewardship of donor support and scholarship funding to make meaningful differences.
Empowering Native scholars and increasing visibility through higher education – click below to find out more.
GED and Adult Education
For assistance obtaining your GED or completing your diploma, please fill out the following short form, and we will contact you with further information. If you have any questions, contact Roger Clark at 435-586-1112 or rclark@pitu.gov.
Utah Colleges with Native American Tuition Waivers
These waiver programs can help students with financial barriers to access, attend, and complete their higher education. Once awarded, the waivers can be renewable for up to eight semesters, ensuring students receive support to complete their degrees.
Each university has different criteria. Please contact your school of choice to find out the right details about these opportunities. Links below to schools with confirmed Native American waiver programs.