new students get to know the campus during a collaborative event with Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center (BNAACC), La Casa Cultural Latina and Native American House (NAH)

Resources for Native Students at UIUC

Diversity is one of UIUC’s strengths. We want our students to have access to resources that are valuable to them on a personal level, which often means providing resources that fit with students’ individual cultural needs. 

Native students at UIUC have access to a wide range of support systems and opportunities, including resources specifically designed for Native and Indigenous students as well as broader resources that are accessible for all students. Read on to learn more!

students being recognized at a Student Affairs event

Native American House

Native American House, or NAH, is a year-round resource center focused on Native culture and experiences. NAH is an opportunity to make friends and enrich your UIUC experience in a diverse, inclusive environment. At NAH, you can expect to find:

  • Programs. NAH hosts several different programs, including NAH Congratulatory, Native Women in Art, Native November, and Fall and Spring Welcome Back, among others.
  • Events. From grad school preparation to beadwork, public speakers to open houses, NAH offers a wide range of events designed to engage students of all backgrounds and interests. Check out their Facebook page to learn more about upcoming events.
  • And more. Take a virtual tour to continue learning about NAH!

Office of Inclusion & Intercultural Relations (OIIR)

OIIR is the umbrella office that contains the Native American House, among other cultural centers and multicultural resources and a variety of programs, interactive classes, and workshops designed to help students thrive in a diverse community. All of the following cultural centers are available through OIIR:

  • The Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center
  • The Asian American Cultural Center
  • La Casa Cultural Latina
  • LGBT Resource Center
  • Women’s Resource Center

UIUC Native Scholarships

UIUC offers scholarships for Native students who are members of Peoria Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma, a tribe that is historically connected with the state of Illinois, as well as scholarships for Native students who are not Illinois residents. These scholarships can cover four years of tuition as well as other fees.

Office of Student Financial Aid

The process of paying for college can be intimidating, which is why our Office of Student Financial Aid can be such a valuable resource. Here, you can develop money management skills, learn to identify and access different types of financial aid, and even scan the UIUC job board if you’re looking to make money while you study.

group photo of SACNAS members and leaders

Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)

The UIUC chapter of SACNAS is dedicated to helping Hispanic/Chicano and Native American students succeed in science. SACNAS offers support and resources for students in the sciences through every step of their careers, from college degrees to research, jobs, and more.

Office of Minority Student Affairs (OMSA)

The Office of Minority Student Affairs is equipped to help you handle every aspect of student life, from physical and emotional wellness to academic success, career preparation, and more. Some of their services include:

  • Advising and Mentoring. OMSA offers general mentoring on a walk-in basis. No matter what year of school you’re in, you can receive professional advice on grad school prep, personal and academic issues, study abroad questions, leadership skills, and more. 
  • Tutoring. University-level coursework can be hard, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming! OMSA offers walk-in tutoring for math and chemistry, and students can also request one-on-one tutoring for a wide range of subjects. Review sessions, study groups, and supplemental instruction are also available through OMSA.
  • Resources. Struggling with the online aspect of online classes? Trying to write a grant and aren’t sure where to start? Looking for a good internship? OMSA offers dozens of different resources, from workshops to tutorials, that can help you in all aspects of your academic life.

Counseling Center

If you’re struggling with your mental health or just feeling overly stressed, anxious, or lonely, you aren’t alone. The Counseling Center has a diverse, experienced staff who are all dedicated to helping UIUC students improve their wellbeing and mental health on an individual level.

Members of the LGBT Resource Center from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign join together as they gather to march in the CU Pride Fest Parade

LGBT Resource Center

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Resource Center is designed to offer students of all identities and sexualities a place to feel safe and included. The center hosts different programs and events and provides a place for LGBTQIA+ students to discuss the challenges they face and receive the support they need. LGBTQIA+ allies are also welcome to participate in the center.

Registered Student Organizations (RSOs)

No matter who you are or what you’re passionate about, you’re likely to find a UIUC club that’s a perfect fit for you. After all, there are around 1,000 organizations, including cultural, religious, and academic clubs. From martial arts to medicine, squirrel watching to a cappella and beyond, finding an RSO you love is a great way to meet new people and develop your talents.

Career Center

Whether you’ve just started your first year or are about to graduate, UIUC’s Career Center can help you prepare for your professional life outside of the university. Use this resource to improve your resume or CV, perfect your interview skills, or learn how to identify the right job for you.


UIUC is an exceptional school because of its students. College is a time to grow academically, socially and emotionally, and we’re committed to providing our students with all the resources they need to make that a reality. We are proud of the diverse student body we have at UIUC, and the opportunity we have to celebrate that diversity.

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