The American Indian Endowed Scholarship helps students who have close social and cultural ties to an American Indian community in the state of Washington. Students can use the scholarships at public colleges and many independent colleges in Washington. The program prioritizes upper division and graduate level students, but all applicants are considered. Students may get AIES funding for up to five years, but they must reapply each year. New applicants must submit a minimum of three recommendation letters. At least two letters must describe the applicant's close social and cultural ties to an American Indian tribe or community in Washington, and one letter must describe their personal commitment to benefit the American Indian community in this state. A fourth letter, from a recent teacher or instructor regarding the applicant's academic performance, is encouraged.