Story perspectives

Montana Expands Tuition Waiver to Tribal Descendants in 2025

3/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Starting July 1, 2025, Montana expands American Indian tuition waiver eligibility to include descendants of tribal members, removing the blood quantum requirement per a 2025 executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Montana Board of Regents aims to enhance Native access, but tribal leaders say the plan lacks consultation.
Angela McLean of the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education says institutions must absorb costs without additional state funding, while Rep. Tyson Running Wolf expresses mixed views.

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Story summary

Starting July 1, 2025, Montana expands American Indian tuition waiver eligibility to include descendants of tribal members, removing the blood quantum requirement per a 2025 executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Montana Board of Regents aims to enhance Native access, but tribal leaders say the plan lacks consultation.
Angela McLean of the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education says institutions must absorb costs without additional state funding, while Rep. Tyson Running Wolf expresses mixed views.