Finding a college where you feel seen, supported, and connected to your culture can make an important difference in your college experience.
Eastern Oregon University offers Native students opportunities to build community, participate in cultural events, explore Native American Studies, and identify financial resources that may make college more affordable.
Eastern Oregon University is a public university located in La Grande, Oregon. Its smaller campus environment may appeal to students who want personal connections while still having access to academic programs, student organizations, and university resources.
Eastern Oregon University’s Native American Program supports Native American, Alaska Native, and other Indigenous students as they navigate university life. The program promotes student success while helping preserve and celebrate Native cultures and identities.
The program also serves as a point of connection for students who are seeking community, cultural activities, scholarship information, and guidance related to tribal enrollment resources.
- Information about the Native American Studies minor
- Connections to the Speel-Ya Native American Student Council
- Native scholarship and tribal enrollment resources
- Cultural events, workshops, and community activities
- A campus contact who can help students identify appropriate resources
Students who want to incorporate Indigenous histories, laws, cultures, and contemporary issues into their education can explore EOU’s Native American Studies minor.
The interdisciplinary program draws from areas such as anthropology, history, economics, political science, and law. This allows students to connect Native perspectives with a wide range of majors and career interests.
A Native American Studies minor may be especially meaningful for students interested in education, tribal government, law, public policy, environmental work, community development, health, history, or cultural preservation.
Academic programs are only one part of the college experience. Students may also want opportunities to build friendships, develop leadership skills, celebrate culture, and connect with the surrounding community.
Speel-Ya gives students opportunities to participate in cultural, educational, and social activities while helping strengthen Native visibility and community on campus.
EOU’s longstanding powwow brings students, families, community members, artists, and dancers together for cultural celebration and connection.
Activities may include beading circles, ribbon skirt workshops, educational campaigns, heritage events, and opportunities to learn from Native community members.
Student organizations and cultural events can help students build confidence, practice leadership, and contribute to the campus community.
Native students considering EOU should explore university scholarships, tribal funding, state grants, federal financial aid, and tuition residency policies. Eligibility differs among programs, so students should review each opportunity carefully.
This EOU Foundation scholarship was created to encourage Native American students to enroll and complete a four year degree at Eastern Oregon University. The award may be renewable for eligible students.
Eligible students who are enrolled members of Oregon’s federally recognized Tribes may receive state funding to help offset the cost of attending an eligible Oregon college or university.
This need based state grant is available to eligible Oregon residents pursuing an initial associate or bachelor’s degree at a participating institution.
Some enrolled tribal members may qualify for Oregon resident tuition even when they currently live outside Oregon. Students should ask EOU to verify their eligibility.
- Complete the FAFSA or ORSAA when applicable
- Apply for EOU Foundation scholarships
- Contact your Tribe’s education department
- Review Oregon grant eligibility and deadlines
- Search for regional and national Native student scholarships
- Ask EOU how outside scholarships affect the financial aid offer
Review the First Citizen Award and other scholarship information provided by EOU.
Check current eligibility requirements, application information, and deadlines.
Learn which tribal members may qualify for Oregon residency treatment for financial aid purposes.
Search for additional scholarships, tuition programs, and funding opportunities created for Native students.
- A smaller public university environment
- A Native American Program that supports cultural connection
- An active Native student organization
- Opportunities to participate in a longstanding campus powwow
- A Native American Studies minor that can complement another major
- Campus and online learning options
- Access to university, tribal, and Oregon financial aid opportunities
No college is the right fit for every student. A program’s existence does not automatically tell you what the daily student experience will be. Speaking with current students and program staff can help you understand whether you would feel connected and supported at EOU.
- Who currently leads the Native American Program, and how can I meet that person?
- What support is available specifically for first year Native students?
- How active is the Speel-Ya Native American Student Council?
- What Native cultural events are planned during the academic year?
- Are Native students connected with mentors, alumni, faculty, or local tribal communities?
- Can I complete the Native American Studies minor with my intended major?
- Which Native scholarships, grants, or residency provisions might apply to me?
- What academic, wellness, and career support will I be able to access?
Eastern Oregon University offers several meaningful points of connection for Native students, including its Native American Program, Native American Studies minor, Speel-Ya Native American Student Council, cultural activities, scholarships, and annual powwow.
For students seeking a smaller public university where Native identity can remain part of their academic and campus experience, EOU may deserve a closer look. Visit the campus if possible, connect with Native program staff, speak with current students, and compare the complete financial aid offer before deciding.
Explore colleges, cultural supports, academic opportunities, and financial resources designed to help Native students make informed college decisions.
Explore the College Search Search for ScholarshipsCollege programs, contacts, financial aid opportunities, eligibility requirements, and deadlines may change. Students and families should confirm current information directly with Eastern Oregon University, Oregon Student Aid, and their tribal education department.
