Nevada Native tuition waiver faces funding uncertainty as enrollment grow
State leaders seek long-term funding for college program serving Native American students
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Nevada's tuition waiver program for Native American students has expanded rapidly since its creation in 2021, but education leaders say its growing cost has raised concerns about long-term funding, according to reporting from The Nevada Independent. The waiver, which covers tuition and fees for eligible members and descendants of federally recognized tribes, served nearly 700 students during the 2024-25 school year, up from about 170 in its first year.
The program cost $3.9 million during the 2024-25 school year, and the Nevada System of Higher Education plans to request $13.4 million in the next state budget to support it, according to The Nevada Independent reporting. A report from the Kenny Guinn Center for Policy Priorities recommended dedicated state funding to preserve the program, while supporters said the waiver has improved access to higher education for Native students and encouraged more students to pursue college degrees.
- 1.Rocío Hernández. A Nevada program waives college costs for Native American students. It's facing a murky future. The Nevada Independent, .
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