
Scholarship Allocation Policy
NLI reserves funding each season to help ensure statewide access to our community leadership sessions. Scholarships reduce financial barriers while honoring the geographic realities of Alaska.

How Scholarships Work
Scholarships are awarded using a three‑tier model based on typical travel burden and financial need. Tiers reflect cost differences across Alaska. Scholarships only cover tuition costs.
Tier 1 — Local / Low Travel Burden (Anchorage, Mat‑Su, Kenai): $250–$500
Tier 2 — In‑State, Requires Air Travel (regional hubs such as Bethel, Nome, Kotzebue, Dillingham, Juneau, Fairbanks): $750–$1,000
Tier 3 — Off‑Road or High‑Burden
Travel (communities requiring multiple flights, charters, or ferry travel): $1,250–$1,500

Who Can Apply
Scholarships are available to:
-Individuals applying to any of NLI’s community sessions
-Participants whose organizations have limited professional development budgets
-Leaders from rural, remote, or underrepresented communities
-First‑time NLI participants (priority consideration)
-Applicants may receive one scholarship per season.

How to Apply
The scholarship request is included in the session application. You’ll be asked for:
-Your community of residence
Employer or organizational affiliation (if applicable)
-A short statement of financial need or barriers to participation
-Confirmation that no other funding source is available
-No financial documentation is required.
How Awards Are Allocated
Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis using the tier structure and guiding principles. Some sessions may not require scholarships, depending on the applicant pool. NLI may adjust tier distribution based on demand and geographic representation.
What Scholarships Cover
Scholarships apply only to NLI tuition. They do not cover travel, lodging, meals outside the program, or other personal expenses.
