BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — United Tribes Technical College is waiving tuition for students who are enrolled members of federally recognized tribes, starting with the fall semester.

United Tribes Technical College President Leander "Russ" McDonald says officials hope the program will give students a better financial start in life while also boosting enrollment.

The Bismarck school draws students from around the country, with nearly 40 tribal nations represented in the student body. Students currently pay tuition of up to $200 per credit.

The American Indian Higher Education Consortium says more than half of the 37 tribal schools in the nation have some sort of tuition waiver program. President and CEO Carrie Billy says students are more likely to succeed if they have less financial stress.

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