Summer Research Fellowship

Your research can change what's possible.

For graduate students whose research is rooted in the needs, histories, and futures of Native communities. This is your chance to go deeper.

Opens Sep 1, 20262026 Cycle

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Opens in

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Tue, Sep 01

Elena Rodriguez, Cobell Summer Research Fellow
Elena Rodriguez · Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Berthold Reservation
Connor Magee, Cobell Summer Research Fellow
Connor Magee · Pala Band of Luiseno Mission Indians

About This Fellowship

The best research starts with the right question and the freedom to chase it. The Graduate Summer Research Fellowship funds original research being conducted during the summer months. Whether you're in a lab, an archive, or out in the field, this fellowship gives you a summer to focus entirely on the work that matters most. Fellows also receive guidance from the IEI Fellowship Team and join a growing cohort of Native researchers.

Eligibility

  • Enrolled member of a U.S. Federally-recognized American Indian Tribe or Alaska Native Corporation
  • Attending an accredited, nonprofit institution of higher education
  • Conducting research during the summer months for a master's degree, thesis, or doctoral dissertation
  • Demonstrate a competitive grade point average

When to Apply

  • Annual Cycle

    Requires research proposal, budget/timeline, and faculty advisor letter. Deadline closes at 11:59 PM MST.

    Opens
    September 1
    Deadline
    January 10

Key Facts

Award Amount
$5,000
Disbursement
Two installments
Duration
Summer term
Degree Level
Graduate
Fellows per Year
~5 selected

Applications are submitted entirely online through the OASIS portal. A copy of your official transcript, research proposal, budget, CV, and faculty advisor letter must all be submitted before the deadline.

Apply

The path forward starts here

Seven steps between you and your fellowship. We'll walk you through every one.

  1. Log In to OASIS

  2. Create / Update your Profile

  3. Complete the Eligibility Form / Get Matched

  4. Apply to Your Matches

  5. Accept Your Offer

  6. You Said Yes. Now What?

  7. Track Your Award

See the full application process

Ready to apply?

Apply on OASIS

FAQ

FAQ: Questions we hear most

From application requirements to selection process, here's what fellowship applicants ask us.

  • What does the application require?
    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.
  • What are the benefits of being a Cobell Fellow?
    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.
  • How many Fellows are selected each summer?
    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.
  • How are finalists selected?
    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.
  • How will finalists be notified?
    All finalists will be notified via email. Make sure the email on your OASIS account is one you check regularly.
  • Can I use AI tools in my application?
    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.
  • Can I apply to other scholarships at the same time?
    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.

Alumni Spotlight

Their research is changing the conversation

Meet Cobell Research Fellows whose work is shaping policy, health, and sovereignty in Indian Country.