Idaho State Board of Education Announces Tuition Reduction for American Indian Students

Members of Idaho’s federally- recognized American Indian tribes can attend Idaho State University for $60 per credit hour tuition beginning this fall.

At the request of Idaho State University, the Idaho State Board of Education approved the pilot program at their monthly meeting in Idaho Falls on Thursday. The proposal was submitted by the Idaho Indian Education Committee. Members of the Shoshone-Bannock, Nez Perce, Shoshone-Paiute, Kootenai and Coeur d’Alene Tribes are eligible for the discounted tuition at ISU. Students must be degree-seeking, maintain satisfactory academic progress and apply for federal student financial aid through the FAFSA program to be eligible. The discounted rate includes tuition, but other class fees will still apply. 

“We are working with the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes to update our memorandum of understanding and build upon our existing relationship,” said ISU Provost and Executive Vice President Laura Woodworth-Ney. “Today’s announcement helps to remove financial barriers to education for students in our Southeast Idaho community.” 

 For an Idaho student taking 12 credits, the cost of tuition is currently $3,710 per semester at ISU. Under the new program, American Indian students will pay $720.

 “We support the state’s efforts to improve access to higher education and this decision will make a difference for many in our state,” said ISU President Kevin Satterlee.