FAQ

Application Guidelines

The following are general guidelines intended to assist you in preparing a clear and complete application for an AISES Scholarship.

Does AISES Extend Deadlines?
AISES strictly adheres to the posted deadlines. No exceptions will be granted. All application deadlines refer to postmark deadlines.

May I Apply for More Than One AISES Scholarship?
Yes, although you may only receive one AISES scholarship in any given academic year. If you choose to apply for more than one AISES scholarship, it is your responsibility to send in separate, complete applications. AISES is not responsible for copying different portions of your application.

Where Do I Send My AISES Scholarship Application?
All scholarship applications should be mailed to:

Regular Mail:
AISES
P.O. Box 9828
Albuquerque, NM 87119-9828

Priority Mail:
AISES
2305 Renard SE Suite 200
Albuquerque, NM 87106

May I Fax My Application Or Supporting Documents?
No. AISES does not accept faxes or xerox copies. All application materials must be originals in good condition.

What Should I Know About AISES Application Forms?

• Please fill out application forms completely and accurately. Answer all questions thoroughly.
• It is best to use a typewriter or computer so your application is easy to read.
• Please check spelling and grammar!
• Make sure you are using the most current version of the scholarship application!

Which Transcripts Should I Include with my Application?

• AISES reserves the right to require the most recent transcript from each applicant.
• Make sure to submit the most up-to-date transcripts available.
• Our scholarship reading committees prefer to have a lot of information to evaluate your scholarship application. The more transcripts you submit (high school, undergraduate, graduate), the more accurately the evaluators are able to score your application.
• College Freshmen/Sophomores: Include your high school transcripts as well!
• If necessary, transcripts may be submitted separate from the rest of the application package, provided the transcripts are postmarked by the appropriate deadline.

Who Should I Ask to Write my Letters of Recommendation?

• Choose individuals who know you well and can write knowledgeably about to your skills and abilities.
• AISES recommends that at least one of your recommendations be from a professor or teacher who has taught you coursework that is relevant to the scholarship.
• If necessary, letters of recommendation may be submitted separate from the rest of the application package, provided the letters are postmarked by the appropriate deadline.

What Is AISES Looking For In A Scholarship Essay?

• The essays required as a part of each scholarship application are the main element of your application that tell the evaluators about you. Make your essay personal, clear, and concise.
• Read the cover sheet to the application to find out what specifically should be included in your essay. Each scholarship has a different focus/emphasis, and your essay(s) should be tailored accordingly.
• It is best to use a typewriter or computer if at all possible, so your application is easy to read. If you do not have access to a typewriter or computer, print clearly and carefully.
• We recommend using a 12-point font, double-spaced.
• Spell check!
• Spell check!

We have provided some actual essays for you to review. These essays scored the highest in the 2001-2002 application cycle. These scholars have graciously agreed to share their essays with you. These sample essays are provided solely for reference and are not to be duplicated or used in part or whole for any reason. (pdf format)

• Sample of Bureau of Reclamation Essay
• Sample A.T. Anderson Essay
• Sample EPA Tribal Lands Essay

What Should I Include on My Resume?
Upload your resume to the AISES Resume Database! (members only) (It is not necessary to submit a cover letter with your resume for scholarship applications.)

AISES recommends that you include extracurricular activities, such as:

• volunteering and community outreach activities
• membership in organizations
• awards/honors/scholarships previously received
• If possible, limit your resume to one well-organized and easy to read page.

Do I Have to be an AISES Member to be Eligible for an AISES Scholarship?

• Yes; in order to be eligible for AISES scholarships, you must be a current member of AISES. Click here to apply for an AISES membership online.
• If you are a graduating high school senior and are planning on attending college within the same calendar year, you may apply for college student membership.
• If you are unsure whether you are a current member, you may contact the Membership Coordinator via e-mail: membership@aises.org.

What Type of Proof of Tribal Enrollment or Descent Is Required?

• The A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship, General Motors Engineering Scholarship, Henry Rodriguez College Scholarship and Internship, and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Foundation Scholarship applicants must submit proof of tribal enrollment.
• A tribal enrollment certification, BIA Form 4432, or a copy of your tribal membership card are generally accepted as proof of enrollment.
• For EPA Tribal Lands Environmental Science applicants, we recommend you send in your proof of tribal enrollment. If you are not awarded an EPA scholarship, your scholarship file will be transferred to the A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship, if you include proof of tribal enrollment.
• AISES does not provide assistance in tracing or proving tribal affiliation. We recommend that you consult with your tribal office or the Bureau of Indian Affairs for assistance.