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California Institute of the Arts

qey’s (Dream) Scholarship for Indigenous Artists

Aid for Graduate Students

CalArts is committed to students from Indigenous backgrounds, and thanks to the partnership and generosity of Chad Hamill (Music BFA 93, MFA 97) and the Hamill Foundation, we are pleased to announce the qey’s (Dream) Scholarship for Indigenous Artists.

This scholarship provides full support of tuition expenses. There will be no restrictions on métier or degree level, and the scholarship will remain with the student throughout their degree.

Priority preference will be given to MFA candidates in any métier who have graduated from the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA). Secondary preference will be given to undergraduate transfer students from IAIA in any métier who have completed a minimum of 36 transferable units or equivalent to 1.5 academic years, and where the transfer would offer the student a learning experience that cannot be achieved at IAIA such as with academic programs unique to CalArts.

I don’t know what I would be doing today if I didn’t get my MFA at CalArts. I didn’t even know there were others who were interested in the type of work and ideas that I was. I didn’t know what existed in the world, nor where to begin.

—Raven Chacon (Navajo), artist and composer

Scholarship details

This scholarship covers tuition throughout a student’s tenure at CalArts, which is the most substantial portion of the cost of a CalArts education. The scholarship recipient is responsible for educational fees and costs associated with housing, food, and other living expenses. However, recipients may be eligible for additional sources of financial aid, including scholarships and loans.

How do I apply?

Eligible applicants will be automatically sent a follow-up questionnaire as part of the selection process.

If you would like to register your interest in the fellowship, we encourage you to contact your admissions representative. 

Can someone help me figure this all out?

Yes! You are welcome to connect with the admissions counselor for any of our programs. Go ahead and reach out! All of the CalArts admissions staff are excited to counsel you as you prepare an application to CalArts.