qey’s (Dream) Scholarship for Indigenous Artists

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

This scholarship provides full support of tuition expenses for an undergraduate or graduate student from an Indigenous community or nation, with preference given to a member of the Hopi Tribe, throughout their tenure at CalArts. All Native American/Indigenous students are encouraged to apply.

California Institute of the Arts

An inclusive community for a diversity of authentic voices, CalArts offers more than 70 comprehensive programs and specializations in the visual, performing, media, and literary arts. Each cultivates individual expression within the context of the contemporary arts, and every student at CalArts is encouraged to find their own personal voice and vision through an interdisciplinary and supportive arts-based education.

Ideally situated in the creative heart of Southern California, our alumnx include internationally-known contemporary artists, arts executives and leaders, and professionals working in creative industries in Los Angeles and throughout the world. They win top awards, found influential companies and organizations, shape today’s artmaking conversations, and pursue a life and career in the arts. 

To learn more about CalArts, check out our Explore CalArts page or sign up for an event or information session.

Raven Chacon (Navajo), artist and composer 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

The Scholarship

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. You can find out more by visiting our Financial Aid page or by emailing finaid@calarts.edu.

Do you offer on-campus housing?

Yes! CalArts has both undergraduate and graduate housing options on-campus. They are a convenient way to transition to life in Los Angeles. We also have an on-campus cafeteria and coffee shop. Several grocery stores, coffee shops, and restaurants are a very short walk, bike ride, or drive away from campus.

While housing costs are not covered by the scholarship, there may be other sources of financial aid, including student loans, that can assist with the full cost of attendance. You can find out more by visiting our Financial Aid page or by emailing finaid@calarts.edu.

If you are accepted into CalArts, you will receive an invitation to apply for housing, you do not need to apply prior to being admitted. You can view our housing slideshow or visit the housing page for more details.

First, research our programs of study, review the audition, writing sample, and/or portfolio requirements for your program of interest, and submit an application.  Then, email admissions@calarts.edu to notify us of your interest in the scholarship. Additionally, applicants whose submission materials demonstrate eligibility may be considered for the scholarship. We may also send a follow-up questionnaire as part of the selection process.

Yes! You are welcome to connect with the admissions contact for any of our programs. You can find their contact information at our Meet Admissions page. Go ahead and reach out! All of the CalArts admissions staff are excited to counsel you as you prepare an application to CalArts.

If you are Hopi and would like to speak to a representative from the Hopi Education Endowment Fund (HEEF), you are also welcome to reach out to:

LuAnn Leonard
HEEF Executive Director
lleonard@hopieducationfund.org
W: 928-734-2275
F: 928-734-2273

Justin Hongeva, M.S. 
Resource Development Manager
jhongeva@hopieducationfund.org
Ph: 928-734-2275

Hopi Education Endowment Fund
PO Box 605
Kykotsmovi, AZ 86039
www.hopieducationfund.org