Your research can change what's possible.

You'll need to submit: a PDF copy of your official transcript (not unofficial), a forecasted research budget and timeline for your summer work, a document describing your research project, and a current CV or academic resume. You'll also complete short-answer responses within the application. For the faculty advisor letter, you'll provide your advisor's contact info and the system will email them directly to request a letter of support. Give your advisor a heads-up before you apply so they're ready.

Beyond the $5,000 award, Fellows receive guidance and support from the IEI Fellowship Team throughout the summer and beyond. You'll join a growing cohort of Native researchers with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and engage with one another. Fellows may also receive support from IEI to present their research at relevant conferences.

Generally, five Fellows are selected each summer. This is a highly competitive fellowship with around 100 applicants each year, so attention to detail and quality really matter.

All eligible applications are reviewed by Indigenous external reviewers with extensive experience working with Native college students. Once reviews are complete, recommendations are sent to IEI and the Cobell Fellowship Team for final selection.

All finalists will be notified via email. Make sure the email on your OASIS account is one you check regularly.

AI tools like ChatGPT are fine for brainstorming, outlining, or proofreading, but the final responses must be your own work. Reviewers want to hear your authentic voice and perspective. The quality of the writing matters less than the personal story you share. You'll tell your own story better than AI can.

Yes! IEI encourages you to apply to every opportunity you qualify for, including the Cobell Scholarship, AISES, and anything else. Applying to the Summer Research Fellowship doesn't limit your other options.