Program Office: Institutional Service
CFDA Number: 84.031T (Part A) and 84.031D (Part F)
Program Type: Discretionary/Formula-Funded A
Also Known As: TCCU Program
This program helps eligible institutions of higher education increase their self-sufficiency by providing funds to improve and strengthen the academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability of eligible institutions.
Examples of authorized activities include:
- (A) Purchase, rental, or lease of scientific or laboratory equipment for educational purposes, including instructional and research purposes;
- (B) Construction, maintenance, renovation, and improvement in classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and other instructional facilities, including purchase or rental of telecommunications technology equipment or services, and the acquisition of real property adjacent to the campus of the institution on which to construct such facilities;
- (C) Support of faculty exchanges, faculty development, and faculty fellowships to assist in attaining advanced degrees in the faculty's field of instruction or in tribal governance or tribal public policy;
- (D) Academic instruction in disciplines in which Indians are underrepresented and instruction in tribal governance or tribal public policy;
- (E) Purchase of library books, periodicals, and other educational materials, including telecommunications program material;
- (F) Tutoring, counseling, and student service programs designed to improve academic success;
- (G) Education or counseling services designed to improve the financial literacy and economic literacy of students or the students' families;
- (H) Funds management, administrative management, and acquisition of equipment for use in strengthening funds management;
- (I) Joint use of facilities, such as laboratories and libraries;
- (J) Establishing or improving a development office to strengthen or improve contributions from alumni and the private sector;
- (K) Establishing or enhancing a program of teacher education designed to qualify students to teach in elementary schools or secondary schools, with a particular emphasis on teaching Indian children and youth, that shall include, as part of such program, preparation for teacher certification;
- (L) Establishing community outreach programs that encourage Indian elementary school and secondary school students to develop the academic skills and the interest to pursue postsecondary education;
- (M) Developing or improving facilities for Internet use or other distance education technologies; and
- (N) Other activities proposed in the application submitted pursuant to subsection (d) that-
- (i) contribute to carrying out the activities described in subparagraphs (A) through (M); and
- (ii) are approved by the Secretary as part of the review and acceptance of such application.
Who May Apply: (by category) Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs)
Who May Apply: (specifically) Applicants are limited to tribal colleges and universities that qualify for funding under the Tribally Controlled College or University Assistance Act of 1978 or the Navajo Community College Assistance Act of 1978; are cited in section 532 of the Equity in Educational Land Grant Status Act of 1994; or are designated as eligible for funding by the Bureau of Indian Education.
(Note: Applying for eligibility for this program is no longer necessary.)
Before submitting an application, new applicants must be determined eligible for funding by the Bureau of Education in the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Application Contact
Everardo Gil-Melgoza, Program Officer, (202) 987-0431, [email protected]
U.S. Department of Education, OPE
American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities Program
LBJ Building, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., 6th floor
Washington, DC 20202
FY 2024
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees PDF (85K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees PDF (85K)
FY 2023
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (17K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (17K)
FY 2022
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees PDF (436K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees PDF (431K)
FY 2021
- Part A New Grantees MS Word (18K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (22K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (22K)
- Part A Project abstracts MS Word (15K) | PDF (10K)
FY 2020
- Part A and Part F New grantees MS Word (22K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (18K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees
- Part A Project abstracts MS Word (61K)
- Part F Project abstracts MS Word (48K)
FY 2019
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (16K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (22K)
FY 2018
- Part A and Part F New grantees MS Word (14K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (50K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (50K)
- Part A Project abstracts PDF (136K)
- Part F Project abstracts PDF (78K)
FY 2017
- Part A and Part F New grantees MS Word (14K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (20K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (17K)
- Part A Project abstracts MS Word (46K)
- Part F Project abstracts MS Word (39K)
FY 2016
- Part A and Part F New grantees MS Word (32K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (50K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (50K)
- Part A Project abstracts MS Word (29K)
- Part F Project abstracts MS Word (29K)
FY 2015
- Part A New grantees MS Word (63K)
Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (32K)
Part A Project abstracts MS Word (145K) - Part F New grantees MS Word (64K)
Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (32K)
Part F Project abstracts MS Word (137K)
FY 2014
- Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees under Part A: MS Word (52K)
- Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees under Part F: MS Word (52K)
FY 2013
- New grantees under Parts A and F:
MS Excel (28K) | PDF (131K) - Project abstracts for new grantees: MS Word (28K) | PDF (379K)
- Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees under Part A: MS Word (61K) | PDF (101K)
- NCC grantees under Part F: MS Word (62K) | PDF (101K)
FY 2012
FY 2011
| Awards | Legislation | Regulations | Performance |
Awards
FY 2021
The FY 2021 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $38,080,000 to issue 33 NCC awards and 2 NCC new awards under the Title III, Part A, American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCU) program, which is formula-based. This was an increase of S1,226,000 above the 2020 level.
In addition, a funding of $28,230,000 was provided for the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2021, which was an increase of $90,000 from the FY 2020 level.
Discretionary Funding: $38,080,000
Number of New Development Awards:2
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 33
Average Discretionary Award: $1,088,000
Mandatory Funding: $28,290,000
Number of New Development Awards: 35
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 0
Average Mandatory Award: $808,285
Total Award Funding: $66,370,000
Discretionary: $38,080,000
Mandatory: $28,290,000
FY 2020
The FY 2020 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $36,633,000 to issue 33 new awards and 2 NCC awards under the Title III, Part A, American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCU) program, which is formula-based. This was an increase of S4,779,000 above the 2019 level.
In addition, a funding of $28,230,000 was provided for the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2020, which was an increase of $90,000 from the FY 2019 level.
Discretionary Funding: $36,633,000
Number of New Development Awards:33
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 2
Average Discretionary Award: $1,046,657
Mandatory Funding: $28,230,000
Number of New Development Awards: 35
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 0
Average Mandatory Award: $806,577
Total Award Funding: $59,994,000
Discretionary: $36,854,000
Mandatory: $28,140,000
FY 2019
The FY 2019 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $31,854,000 to issue 35 NCC awards under the Title III, Part A, American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCU) program, which is formula-based. This was an increase of S315,000 above the 2018 level.
In addition, a mandagory funding of $28,140,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2019, which was an increase of $120,000 from the FY 2018 level.
Discretionary Funding: $31,854,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 35
Average Discretionary Award: $910,114
Mandatory Funding: $28,140,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 35
Average Mandatory Award: $800,571
Total Award Funding: $59,994,000
Discretionary: $31,854,000
Mandatory: $28,140,000
FY 2018
The FY 2018 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $31,539,000, an increase of $3,940.000 above the FY2017 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $28,020,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2018, which was an increase of $90,000 from the FY 2017 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $31,539,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($737,856)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34 ($30,801,144)
Average Discretionary Award: $901,114
Mandatory Funding: $28,020,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($645,933)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34 ($27,374,067)
Average Mandatory Award: $800,571
Total Development Award Funding: $59,559,000
Total Award Funding: $59,559,000
Discretionary: $31,539,000
Mandatory: $28,020,000
FY 2017
The FY 2017 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $27,599,000 the same as the FY 2016 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $27,930,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2017, which was a decrease of $30,000 from the FY 2016 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $27,599,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($500,000)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 32 ($27,099,000)
Average Discretionary Award: $788,543
Mandatory Funding: $27,930,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($500,000)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34 ($27,430,000)
Average Mandatory Award: $798,000
Total Development Award Funding: $55,529,000
Total Award Funding: $55,529,000
Discretionary: $27,599,000
Mandatory: $27,930,000
Total Number of Awards: 70
FY 2016
The FY 2016 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $27,599,000, an increase of $1,937,000 from the FY 2015 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $27,960,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2016, an increase of $150,000 from the FY 2015 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $27,599,000
Number of New Development Awards: 2 ($1,000,000)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 32 ($26,599,000)
Average Discretionary Award: $811,735
Mandatory Funding: $27,960,000
Number of New Development Awards: 2 ($1,000,000)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 32 ($26,960,000)
Average Mandatory Award: $822,353
Total Development Award Funding: $55,559,000
Total Award Funding: $55,559,000
Discretionary: $27,599,000
Mandatory: $27,960,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2015
The FY 2015 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $25,662,000, an increase of $423,000 from the FY 2014 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $27,810,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2015, which was a reduction of $30,000 from the FY 2014 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $25,662,000
Number of New Development Awards: 31 ($24,153,165)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 3 ($1,508,835)
Average Discretionary Award: $754,765
Mandatory Funding: $27,810,000
Number of New Development Awards: 31 ($26,248,526)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 3 ($1,561,474)
Average Development Award: $817,941
Total Development Award Funding: $53,472,000
Total Award Funding: $53,472,000
Discretionary: $25,662,000
Mandatory: $27,810,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2014
The FY 2014 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $25,239,000, an increase of $870,651 from the FY 2013 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $27,840,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), is being provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2014, which is a reduction of $630,000 from the FY 2013 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $25,239,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34
Average Discretionary Award: $742,324
Mandatory Funding: $27,840,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34
Average Development Award: $818,824
Total Development Award Funding: $53,079,000
Total Award Funding: $53,079,000
Discretionary: $25,239,000
Mandatory: $27,840,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2013
The FY 2013 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $24,368,349, a reduction of $1,344,961 from the FY 2012 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $28,470,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), is being provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2013, which is a reduction of $1,530,000 from the FY 2012 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $24,368,349
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($524,010)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 33 ($23,844,339)
Average Discretionary Award: $716,716
Mandatory Funding: $28,470,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($635,038)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 33 ($27,834,962)
Average Development Award: $837,353
Total Development Award Funding: $52,838,349
Total Award Funding: $52,838,349
Discretionary: $24,368,349
Mandatory: $28,470,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2012
The FY 2012 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $25,713,310, a reduction of $1,106,942 from the FY 2011 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, mandatory funding of $30 million, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), is being provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2012. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $25,713,310
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 35
Average Discretionary Award: $734,666
Mandatory Funding: $30,000,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 33
Average Development Award: $909,091
Total Development Award Funding: $55,713,310
Total Award Funding: $55,713,310
Discretionary: $25,713,310
Mandatory: $30,000,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2011
Discretionary Funding: $26,820,252
Number of New Development Awards: 2
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 38
Average Discretionary Award: $670,506
Mandatory Funding: $30,000,000
Number of New Development Awards: 2
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 31
Average Development Award: $909,091
Total Development Award Funding: $56,820,252
Total Award Funding: $56,820,252
Discretionary: $26,820,252
Mandatory: $30,000,000
Total Number of Awards: 73
FY 2010
Discretionary Funding:
Number of Development Awards: 31
Average Development Award: $973,000
Total Development Award Funding: $30,169,000
Mandatory Funding:
Number of Development Awards: 31
Average Development Award: $968,000
Total Development Award Funding: $30,000,000
Total Award Funding: $60,169,000
Discretionary: $30,169,000
Mandatory: $30,000,000
Total Number of Awards: 62
Legislation
- Title III, Part A, Sec. 316 of the Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965, as amended. (20 U.S.C 1059c)
- Title III, Part F, Sec. 371 of the Higher Education Act, as amended (20 U.S.C. 1067q)
Regulations
- Title 34 Part 607
- Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) in 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77, 79, 82, 84, 85, 86, 97, 98, and 99
Annual Performance Report
Grantees are required to complete an online Annual Performance Report (APR) which is due no earlier than 90 days following the end of the fiscal year (September 30). Grants in their first year must also submit an Interim Report, which is usually due about six months after the start of the grant on October 1.
Final Performance Report
The online system will generate a final report from grantees' individual annual reports for each grant ending September 30 of the collection period. The online system generates the final performance so that reported data is consistent throughout the life cycle of grants and eliminates each grantee's burden of having to compile a final report.
Related Sites
- White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education
- Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, and other Federal Student Aid Programs
- Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions Program
- Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities Program
Other Resources
Key Staff
Everardo Gil, Program Manager
E-mail: [email protected]
Telephone: (202) 987-0431
Mailing Address
U.S. Department of Education, OPE
Higher Education Programs
American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities Program
LBJ Building, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, DC 20202
Frequently Asked Questions
 | Select a link below to jump to the relevant page section. |
- How is the TCCU program funded?
- What activities are allowable and unallowable in the TCCU program?
- What are the rules for drawing down funds?
- Are grantees allowed to make revisions in their budgets?
- What about carrying over funds from a previous fiscal year? Can this be done and, if so, do the funds have to be used solely for finishing activities from the previous budget period?
- What types of performance reports are required?
- What is the performance period of the grants and can it be extended?
- How can federal TCCU grant funds be spent on endowments?
- Is there a limit on the time for which an individual can work as project director or as another key staff member on grants?
- Can presidents of the tribal colleges/universities serve as project directors?
1. How is the TCCU program funded?
The Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) of 2008, which reauthorized the Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965, transformed the former competitive TCCU program into a largely formula-driven program. The revised law, however, stated that recipient institutions receive a minimum of $500,000. Also, at the behest of the Department of Education (ED or the Department), Congress has inserted language in all of the Department of Education's annual appropriation bills (FY 2009, FY 2010, FY 2011) requiring that non-competing continuation (NCC) awards (in amounts not less than that originally authorized) be made to eligible grantees that had been selected by the previous competitive process. NCC funding for these older competitive grants is taken from their particular institutions' formula allotment. Their funding, however, may exceed what their institution is entitled to under the funding formula. The HEOA also gave the Department of Education the authority to reserve up to 30 percent of the annual appropriation for competitive one-year construction grants, an option the Department has not yet chosen.
TOP
2. What activities are allowable and unallowable in the TCCU program?
Review the program regulations in 34 CFR 607.10 and 607.30 for guidance on which specific activities and costs are allowable. In general, grants focus on strengthening the institution in regard to academic activities. The operative word is institution as opposed to an individual student. One semi-exception is that TCCU grants can establish community outreach programs that encourage Indian elementary school and secondary school students to develop the academic skills and the interest to pursue postsecondary education. The major unallowable activities are:
- Recruiting students;
- Carrying out activities that are operational rather than developmental;
- Carrying out student activities such as entertainment, cultural or social enrichment programs, student publications, social clubs or associations;
- Paying for organized fundraising (However, you can strengthen the office dealing with fundraising and other forms of contributions.);
- Covering indirect costs;
- Paying salaries of the college President or other individuals with institution-wide authority.
TOP
3. What are the rules for drawing down funds?
One significant problem is that of insufficient drawdowns. Grantees must keep in mind that the Department regularly monitors cash drawdown activity for all grants. If funds are not being drawn down, ED officials will assume that the project does not need all of its funds and these can be reduced. Consequently, drawdowns should be made on at least a monthly basis. Furthermore, the project director should monitor the fiscal activity (drawdowns and payments) of the grant on a continuous basis to make sure that no erroneous actions take place (e.g., funds drawn down by another grant).
Moreover, one should draw down only as much cash as is necessary to meet the immediate needs of the grant project. It is essential to keep to a minimum the time between drawing down the funds and paying them out for grant activities. (See CFR 74.21-22 and 80.20-21.)
TOP
4. Are grantees allowed to make revisions in their budgets?
Budgets can be revised and, in fact, the concept of formative evaluation assumes that budgets will be adjusted to deal with unexpected contingencies and produce the most effective projects possible. Budgets, in short, are not intended to be straight-jackets that prevent any changes in the grant. Proposed changes should be presented to the program officer to make sure that these do not involve unallowable activities and to keep the latter informed of grant activities. Also, new budgets are presented every fiscal year as new funding is provided. Grantees cannot develop these budgets until they learn the amount of funding that they will receive for the upcoming fiscal year.
TOP
5. What about carrying over funds from a previous fiscal year? Can this be done and, if so, do the funds have to be used solely for finishing activities from the previous budget period?
Carrying over funds is permissible and does not require prior approval. Carryover funds can be used for any allowable cost. Any planned changes in the use of funds, however, should be brought to the attention of the program officer in order to determine the allowability of the new activities and to keep the latter informed of the activities of the project.
TOP
6. What types of performance reports are required?
The TCCU program requires annual performance reports and an interim report that covers the first six months of the grant. The final annual report includes an executive summary that should cover the entirety of the grant, not simply the last year. Both the annual and interim reports are submitted electronically. Specific information on the performance reports will be provided during the fiscal year in which they are due.
TOP
7. What is the performance period of the grants and can it be extended?
The performance period for the current grants that are funded on a formula basis is five years, with one-year budget periods. No-cost extensions are allowed. A one-time extension of the project period for up to one year without prior approval is allowed as long as the following procedures are followed.
The grantee sends written notification of the planned extension to the program officer no later than 10 days before end of project period. The written request must provide the reason for the no-cost extension and the proposed new end date. No-cost extensions cannot be merely for the purpose of exhausting unexpended funds. An estimated budget should be provided. If a no-cost extension is granted, then a new Grant Award Notification (GAN) is generated and mailed to the project director and the certifying official.
TOP
8. How can federal TCCU grant funds be spent on endowments?
Institutions may use up to 20 percent of the funds from an award period (e.g., FY 2011) for an endowment. The institution must match with one non-federal dollar for every dollar drawn down for the endowment. Federal funds can only be drawn down after a match takes place. For various reasons (especially the inability to meet the match), the institution can decide to use part of all of the funds intended for the endowment for other allowable grant purposes. It is essential to inform the program officer of the proposed change and the reasons for it.
During the grant period, the grantee may not withdraw or spend any of the corpus money put into the endowment. At the end the 20-year period, the institution may use the endowment corpus for any educational purpose.
TOP
9. Is there a limit on the time for which an individual can work as project director or as another key staff member on grants?
If an individual is working on several grants, his or her total level of effort may not exceed 125 percent.
TOP
10. Can presidents of the tribal colleges/universities serve as project directors?
This is permitted, but presidents or any other official with institution-wide authority cannot be paid by TCCU grant funds for this activity.
Program Office: Institutional Service
CFDA Number: 84.031T (Part A) and 84.031D (Part F)
Program Type: Discretionary/Formula-Funded A
Also Known As: TCCU Program
This program helps eligible institutions of higher education increase their self-sufficiency by providing funds to improve and strengthen the academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability of eligible institutions.
Examples of authorized activities include:
- (A) Purchase, rental, or lease of scientific or laboratory equipment for educational purposes, including instructional and research purposes;
- (B) Construction, maintenance, renovation, and improvement in classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and other instructional facilities, including purchase or rental of telecommunications technology equipment or services, and the acquisition of real property adjacent to the campus of the institution on which to construct such facilities;
- (C) Support of faculty exchanges, faculty development, and faculty fellowships to assist in attaining advanced degrees in the faculty's field of instruction or in tribal governance or tribal public policy;
- (D) Academic instruction in disciplines in which Indians are underrepresented and instruction in tribal governance or tribal public policy;
- (E) Purchase of library books, periodicals, and other educational materials, including telecommunications program material;
- (F) Tutoring, counseling, and student service programs designed to improve academic success;
- (G) Education or counseling services designed to improve the financial literacy and economic literacy of students or the students' families;
- (H) Funds management, administrative management, and acquisition of equipment for use in strengthening funds management;
- (I) Joint use of facilities, such as laboratories and libraries;
- (J) Establishing or improving a development office to strengthen or improve contributions from alumni and the private sector;
- (K) Establishing or enhancing a program of teacher education designed to qualify students to teach in elementary schools or secondary schools, with a particular emphasis on teaching Indian children and youth, that shall include, as part of such program, preparation for teacher certification;
- (L) Establishing community outreach programs that encourage Indian elementary school and secondary school students to develop the academic skills and the interest to pursue postsecondary education;
- (M) Developing or improving facilities for Internet use or other distance education technologies; and
- (N) Other activities proposed in the application submitted pursuant to subsection (d) that-
- (i) contribute to carrying out the activities described in subparagraphs (A) through (M); and
- (ii) are approved by the Secretary as part of the review and acceptance of such application.
Who May Apply: (by category) Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs)
Who May Apply: (specifically) Applicants are limited to tribal colleges and universities that qualify for funding under the Tribally Controlled College or University Assistance Act of 1978 or the Navajo Community College Assistance Act of 1978; are cited in section 532 of the Equity in Educational Land Grant Status Act of 1994; or are designated as eligible for funding by the Bureau of Indian Education.
(Note: Applying for eligibility for this program is no longer necessary.)
Before submitting an application, new applicants must be determined eligible for funding by the Bureau of Education in the U.S. Department of the Interior.
Application Contact
Everardo Gil-Melgoza, Program Officer, (202) 987-0431, [email protected]
U.S. Department of Education, OPE
American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities Program
LBJ Building, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., 6th floor
Washington, DC 20202
FY 2024
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees PDF (85K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees PDF (85K)
FY 2023
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (17K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (17K)
FY 2022
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees PDF (436K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees PDF (431K)
FY 2021
- Part A New Grantees MS Word (18K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (22K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (22K)
- Part A Project abstracts MS Word (15K) | PDF (10K)
FY 2020
- Part A and Part F New grantees MS Word (22K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (18K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees
- Part A Project abstracts MS Word (61K)
- Part F Project abstracts MS Word (48K)
FY 2019
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (16K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (22K)
FY 2018
- Part A and Part F New grantees MS Word (14K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (50K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (50K)
- Part A Project abstracts PDF (136K)
- Part F Project abstracts PDF (78K)
FY 2017
- Part A and Part F New grantees MS Word (14K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (20K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (17K)
- Part A Project abstracts MS Word (46K)
- Part F Project abstracts MS Word (39K)
FY 2016
- Part A and Part F New grantees MS Word (32K)
- Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (50K)
- Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (50K)
- Part A Project abstracts MS Word (29K)
- Part F Project abstracts MS Word (29K)
FY 2015
- Part A New grantees MS Word (63K)
Part A Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (32K)
Part A Project abstracts MS Word (145K) - Part F New grantees MS Word (64K)
Part F Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees MS Word (32K)
Part F Project abstracts MS Word (137K)
FY 2014
- Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees under Part A: MS Word (52K)
- Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees under Part F: MS Word (52K)
FY 2013
- New grantees under Parts A and F: MS Excel (28K) | PDF (131K)
- Project abstracts for new grantees: MS Word (28K) | PDF (379K)
- Noncompeting Continuation (NCC) grantees under Part A: MS Word (61K) | PDF (101K)
- NCC grantees under Part F: MS Word (62K) | PDF (101K)
FY 2012
FY 2011
| Awards | Legislation | Regulations | Performance |
Awards
FY 2021
The FY 2021 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $38,080,000 to issue 33 NCC awards and 2 NCC new awards under the Title III, Part A, American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCU) program, which is formula-based. This was an increase of S1,226,000 above the 2020 level.
In addition, a funding of $28,230,000 was provided for the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2021, which was an increase of $90,000 from the FY 2020 level.
Discretionary Funding: $38,080,000
Number of New Development Awards:2
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 33
Average Discretionary Award: $1,088,000
Mandatory Funding: $28,290,000
Number of New Development Awards: 35
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 0
Average Mandatory Award: $808,285
Total Award Funding: $66,370,000
Discretionary: $38,080,000
Mandatory: $28,290,000
FY 2020
The FY 2020 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $36,633,000 to issue 33 new awards and 2 NCC awards under the Title III, Part A, American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCU) program, which is formula-based. This was an increase of S4,779,000 above the 2019 level.
In addition, a funding of $28,230,000 was provided for the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2020, which was an increase of $90,000 from the FY 2019 level.
Discretionary Funding: $36,633,000
Number of New Development Awards:33
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 2
Average Discretionary Award: $1,046,657
Mandatory Funding: $28,230,000
Number of New Development Awards: 35
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 0
Average Mandatory Award: $806,577
Total Award Funding: $59,994,000
Discretionary: $36,854,000
Mandatory: $28,140,000
FY 2019
The FY 2019 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $31,854,000 to issue 35 NCC awards under the Title III, Part A, American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCU) program, which is formula-based. This was an increase of S315,000 above the 2018 level.
In addition, a mandagory funding of $28,140,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2019, which was an increase of $120,000 from the FY 2018 level.
Discretionary Funding: $31,854,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 35
Average Discretionary Award: $910,114
Mandatory Funding: $28,140,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 35
Average Mandatory Award: $800,571
Total Award Funding: $59,994,000
Discretionary: $31,854,000
Mandatory: $28,140,000
FY 2018
The FY 2018 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $31,539,000, an increase of $3,940.000 above the FY2017 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $28,020,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2018, which was an increase of $90,000 from the FY 2017 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $31,539,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($737,856)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34 ($30,801,144)
Average Discretionary Award: $901,114
Mandatory Funding: $28,020,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($645,933)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34 ($27,374,067)
Average Mandatory Award: $800,571
Total Development Award Funding: $59,559,000
Total Award Funding: $59,559,000
Discretionary: $31,539,000
Mandatory: $28,020,000
FY 2017
The FY 2017 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $27,599,000 the same as the FY 2016 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $27,930,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2017, which was a decrease of $30,000 from the FY 2016 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $27,599,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($500,000)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 32 ($27,099,000)
Average Discretionary Award: $788,543
Mandatory Funding: $27,930,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($500,000)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34 ($27,430,000)
Average Mandatory Award: $798,000
Total Development Award Funding: $55,529,000
Total Award Funding: $55,529,000
Discretionary: $27,599,000
Mandatory: $27,930,000
Total Number of Awards: 70
FY 2016
The FY 2016 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $27,599,000, an increase of $1,937,000 from the FY 2015 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $27,960,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2016, an increase of $150,000 from the FY 2015 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $27,599,000
Number of New Development Awards: 2 ($1,000,000)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 32 ($26,599,000)
Average Discretionary Award: $811,735
Mandatory Funding: $27,960,000
Number of New Development Awards: 2 ($1,000,000)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 32 ($26,960,000)
Average Mandatory Award: $822,353
Total Development Award Funding: $55,559,000
Total Award Funding: $55,559,000
Discretionary: $27,599,000
Mandatory: $27,960,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2015
The FY 2015 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $25,662,000, an increase of $423,000 from the FY 2014 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $27,810,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), was provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2015, which was a reduction of $30,000 from the FY 2014 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $25,662,000
Number of New Development Awards: 31 ($24,153,165)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 3 ($1,508,835)
Average Discretionary Award: $754,765
Mandatory Funding: $27,810,000
Number of New Development Awards: 31 ($26,248,526)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 3 ($1,561,474)
Average Development Award: $817,941
Total Development Award Funding: $53,472,000
Total Award Funding: $53,472,000
Discretionary: $25,662,000
Mandatory: $27,810,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2014
The FY 2014 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $25,239,000, an increase of $870,651 from the FY 2013 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $27,840,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), is being provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2014, which is a reduction of $630,000 from the FY 2013 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $25,239,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34
Average Discretionary Award: $742,324
Mandatory Funding: $27,840,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 34
Average Development Award: $818,824
Total Development Award Funding: $53,079,000
Total Award Funding: $53,079,000
Discretionary: $25,239,000
Mandatory: $27,840,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2013
The FY 2013 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $24,368,349, a reduction of $1,344,961 from the FY 2012 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, a mandatory funding of $28,470,000, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), is being provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2013, which is a reduction of $1,530,000 from the FY 2012 level. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $24,368,349
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($524,010)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 33 ($23,844,339)
Average Discretionary Award: $716,716
Mandatory Funding: $28,470,000
Number of New Development Awards: 1 ($635,038)
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 33 ($27,834,962)
Average Development Award: $837,353
Total Development Award Funding: $52,838,349
Total Award Funding: $52,838,349
Discretionary: $24,368,349
Mandatory: $28,470,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2012
The FY 2012 appropriation for the discretionary TCCU program was $25,713,310, a reduction of $1,106,942 from the FY 2011 level. Funds for the TCCU program are allocated based on a statutory formula. In addition, mandatory funding of $30 million, appropriated by the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), is being provided in the mandatory TCCU program in FY 2012. Funds are allocated according to the same statutory formula as that used for the discretionary grants.
Discretionary Funding: $25,713,310
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 35
Average Discretionary Award: $734,666
Mandatory Funding: $30,000,000
Number of New Development Awards: 0
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 33
Average Development Award: $909,091
Total Development Award Funding: $55,713,310
Total Award Funding: $55,713,310
Discretionary: $25,713,310
Mandatory: $30,000,000
Total Number of Awards: 68
FY 2011
Discretionary Funding: $26,820,252
Number of New Development Awards: 2
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 38
Average Discretionary Award: $670,506
Mandatory Funding: $30,000,000
Number of New Development Awards: 2
Number of Non-Competitive Continuation Development Awards: 31
Average Development Award: $909,091
Total Development Award Funding: $56,820,252
Total Award Funding: $56,820,252
Discretionary: $26,820,252
Mandatory: $30,000,000
Total Number of Awards: 73
FY 2010
Discretionary Funding:
Number of Development Awards: 31
Average Development Award: $973,000
Total Development Award Funding: $30,169,000
Mandatory Funding:
Number of Development Awards: 31
Average Development Award: $968,000
Total Development Award Funding: $30,000,000
Total Award Funding: $60,169,000
Discretionary: $30,169,000
Mandatory: $30,000,000
Total Number of Awards: 62
Legislation
- Title III, Part A, Sec. 316 of the Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965, as amended. (20 U.S.C 1059c)
- Title III, Part F, Sec. 371 of the Higher Education Act, as amended (20 U.S.C. 1067q)
Regulations
- Title 34 Part 607
- Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) in 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77, 79, 82, 84, 85, 86, 97, 98, and 99
Annual Performance Report
Grantees are required to complete an online Annual Performance Report (APR) which is due no earlier than 90 days following the end of the fiscal year (September 30). Grants in their first year must also submit an Interim Report, which is usually due about six months after the start of the grant on October 1.
Final Performance Report
The online system will generate a final report from grantees' individual annual reports for each grant ending September 30 of the collection period. The online system generates the final performance so that reported data is consistent throughout the life cycle of grants and eliminates each grantee's burden of having to compile a final report.
Related Sites
- White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education
- Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, and other Federal Student Aid Programs
- Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions Program
- Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities Program
Other Resources
Key Staff
Everardo Gil, Program Manager
E-mail: [email protected]
Telephone: (202) 987-0431
Mailing Address
U.S. Department of Education, OPE
Higher Education Programs
American Indian Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities Program
LBJ Building, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, DC 20202
Frequently Asked Questions
| Select a link below to jump to the relevant page section. |
- How is the TCCU program funded?
- What activities are allowable and unallowable in the TCCU program?
- What are the rules for drawing down funds?
- Are grantees allowed to make revisions in their budgets?
- What about carrying over funds from a previous fiscal year? Can this be done and, if so, do the funds have to be used solely for finishing activities from the previous budget period?
- What types of performance reports are required?
- What is the performance period of the grants and can it be extended?
- How can federal TCCU grant funds be spent on endowments?
- Is there a limit on the time for which an individual can work as project director or as another key staff member on grants?
- Can presidents of the tribal colleges/universities serve as project directors?
1. How is the TCCU program funded?
The Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) of 2008, which reauthorized the Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965, transformed the former competitive TCCU program into a largely formula-driven program. The revised law, however, stated that recipient institutions receive a minimum of $500,000. Also, at the behest of the Department of Education (ED or the Department), Congress has inserted language in all of the Department of Education's annual appropriation bills (FY 2009, FY 2010, FY 2011) requiring that non-competing continuation (NCC) awards (in amounts not less than that originally authorized) be made to eligible grantees that had been selected by the previous competitive process. NCC funding for these older competitive grants is taken from their particular institutions' formula allotment. Their funding, however, may exceed what their institution is entitled to under the funding formula. The HEOA also gave the Department of Education the authority to reserve up to 30 percent of the annual appropriation for competitive one-year construction grants, an option the Department has not yet chosen.
TOP
2. What activities are allowable and unallowable in the TCCU program?
Review the program regulations in 34 CFR 607.10 and 607.30 for guidance on which specific activities and costs are allowable. In general, grants focus on strengthening the institution in regard to academic activities. The operative word is institution as opposed to an individual student. One semi-exception is that TCCU grants can establish community outreach programs that encourage Indian elementary school and secondary school students to develop the academic skills and the interest to pursue postsecondary education. The major unallowable activities are:
- Recruiting students;
- Carrying out activities that are operational rather than developmental;
- Carrying out student activities such as entertainment, cultural or social enrichment programs, student publications, social clubs or associations;
- Paying for organized fundraising (However, you can strengthen the office dealing with fundraising and other forms of contributions.);
- Covering indirect costs;
- Paying salaries of the college President or other individuals with institution-wide authority.
TOP
3. What are the rules for drawing down funds?
One significant problem is that of insufficient drawdowns. Grantees must keep in mind that the Department regularly monitors cash drawdown activity for all grants. If funds are not being drawn down, ED officials will assume that the project does not need all of its funds and these can be reduced. Consequently, drawdowns should be made on at least a monthly basis. Furthermore, the project director should monitor the fiscal activity (drawdowns and payments) of the grant on a continuous basis to make sure that no erroneous actions take place (e.g., funds drawn down by another grant).
Moreover, one should draw down only as much cash as is necessary to meet the immediate needs of the grant project. It is essential to keep to a minimum the time between drawing down the funds and paying them out for grant activities. (See CFR 74.21-22 and 80.20-21.)
TOP
4. Are grantees allowed to make revisions in their budgets?
Budgets can be revised and, in fact, the concept of formative evaluation assumes that budgets will be adjusted to deal with unexpected contingencies and produce the most effective projects possible. Budgets, in short, are not intended to be straight-jackets that prevent any changes in the grant. Proposed changes should be presented to the program officer to make sure that these do not involve unallowable activities and to keep the latter informed of grant activities. Also, new budgets are presented every fiscal year as new funding is provided. Grantees cannot develop these budgets until they learn the amount of funding that they will receive for the upcoming fiscal year.
TOP
5. What about carrying over funds from a previous fiscal year? Can this be done and, if so, do the funds have to be used solely for finishing activities from the previous budget period?
Carrying over funds is permissible and does not require prior approval. Carryover funds can be used for any allowable cost. Any planned changes in the use of funds, however, should be brought to the attention of the program officer in order to determine the allowability of the new activities and to keep the latter informed of the activities of the project.
TOP
6. What types of performance reports are required?
The TCCU program requires annual performance reports and an interim report that covers the first six months of the grant. The final annual report includes an executive summary that should cover the entirety of the grant, not simply the last year. Both the annual and interim reports are submitted electronically. Specific information on the performance reports will be provided during the fiscal year in which they are due.
TOP
7. What is the performance period of the grants and can it be extended?
The performance period for the current grants that are funded on a formula basis is five years, with one-year budget periods. No-cost extensions are allowed. A one-time extension of the project period for up to one year without prior approval is allowed as long as the following procedures are followed.
The grantee sends written notification of the planned extension to the program officer no later than 10 days before end of project period. The written request must provide the reason for the no-cost extension and the proposed new end date. No-cost extensions cannot be merely for the purpose of exhausting unexpended funds. An estimated budget should be provided. If a no-cost extension is granted, then a new Grant Award Notification (GAN) is generated and mailed to the project director and the certifying official.
TOP
8. How can federal TCCU grant funds be spent on endowments?
Institutions may use up to 20 percent of the funds from an award period (e.g., FY 2011) for an endowment. The institution must match with one non-federal dollar for every dollar drawn down for the endowment. Federal funds can only be drawn down after a match takes place. For various reasons (especially the inability to meet the match), the institution can decide to use part of all of the funds intended for the endowment for other allowable grant purposes. It is essential to inform the program officer of the proposed change and the reasons for it.
During the grant period, the grantee may not withdraw or spend any of the corpus money put into the endowment. At the end the 20-year period, the institution may use the endowment corpus for any educational purpose.
TOP
9. Is there a limit on the time for which an individual can work as project director or as another key staff member on grants?
If an individual is working on several grants, his or her total level of effort may not exceed 125 percent.
TOP
10. Can presidents of the tribal colleges/universities serve as project directors?
This is permitted, but presidents or any other official with institution-wide authority cannot be paid by TCCU grant funds for this activity.