MASCAMA: Mo abe-namks g si O’odham himdag g Milga:n himdag we:m.
EDUCATION: A bridge between tradition and the modern world.
Mission Statement
To preserve the uniqueness of Native American culture and language, and to strengthen families and communities, education must start at home. To foster success in both cultures, the Tohono O’odham Education Department will support the O’odham in reaching their full potential by encouraging self-respect, broadening awareness of opportunities, and offering education and training.
Education Assistance Program/Higher Education Services (TONEAP/HES)
The Education Assistance Program (formerly known as the T.O.N. Scholarship Program) offers financial support to enrolled tribal members pursuing an academic degree or certificate. TONEAP/HES provides assistance for tuition/registration, books, transportation, one-time technology support, and a living stipend, if eligible.
How your funding is determined is dependent on the information reported in the financial needs analysis (FNA), the form is completed by the financial aid office of the student’s school/institution.
Program Qualifications
To enroll in the Tohono O’odham Nation Education Assistance Program, you must:
- Be an enrolled member of the Tohono O’odham Nation with your tribal identification available.
Note: Students must complete enrollment verification during the initial intake process and once annually thereafter to maintain eligibility for the EAP.
- Applicants must provide documentation confirming high school graduation or successful completion of a GED program.
Note: This must include official transcripts indicating the graduation date. Transcripts must be sealed and mailed directly to EAP (refer to Contact Information for the mailing address). Digital transcripts must be sent directly from the issuing school or institution to EAP via email at askeap@tonation-nsn.gov. - Student must be accepted and enrolled in an accredited higher education program lasting at least one (1) year, leading to a certification or degree.
- Completed and submitted the FAFSA (Pell Grant application)
Note: Students enrolled in Master’s or PhD programs are not required to apply for the FAFSA Pell Grant.
Soon-to-be or Recent High School Graduates:
- Allow 2–3 months before high school graduation to understand the process and gather the needed documents.
- Once you receive your high school diploma, keep a copy ready to submit for processing.
- An official transcript is required and must be submitted in a sealed, unopened envelope from your high school.
- Graduated recently? Please review and gather the required documents for EAP processing.