Embedded Files
Overview
The purpose of this guide is to provide First Nations, Métis & Inuit students with valuable information to support their journey towards post-secondary education. Students are encouraged to work alongside their school guidance counselors, Aboriginal Student Achievement Coordinators, or any other school staff, to facilitate the process of attaining scholarships or bursaries. All of the provided information is as up-to-date as possible. However, it is suggested to click the link and confirm all deadlines and requirements, as some websites may not have the most current and up to date information.
What is a Scholarship?
Academic and non-academic awards (funding or sponsorships) that provide a financial prize or assistance that is typically used towards a tuition payment, registrations or to cover resources that support the student’s success in their post-secondary endeavors. Scholarship applications vary, and often require different things such as transcripts, letters of reference, or proof of identity (Métis or Indian Status cards).
What is a Bursary?
A bursary is help with the financial need of attending post-secondary schooling, the financial prize might go towards, but is not limited to, school supplies needed for post-sec (I.e. computer, textbooks, bus pass). Bursaries vary, and often require different things such as transcripts, letters of reference or proof of identity (Métis or Indian status card).
Terminology
Many scholarship and bursary applications will ask for information regarding your ancestry. The term ‘Aboriginal’ is an umbrella word that includes Métis, Inuit & First Nations peoples. The term ‘Indigenous’ is used for a similar purpose, as it too encompasses a variety of Aboriginal groups. Indigenous is used broadly for peoples who have a long standing inherent right and connection to the land. Below the terminology is explained in more detail:
Métis
Self-identifies as Métis, is distinct from other Aboriginal peoples, is of historic Métis Nation ancestry, and is accepted by the Métis Nation
First Nations
Status Indian – registered under the Indian Act, eligible for or has a status card
Non-Status Indian – identifies as a First Nations person, but is not eligible for a status card (may however, still be a member of a First Nations band)
Inuit
Traditional homeland in the Arctic, or Northern Canada
Proof of Identity barriers that may arise
Some students, because of special circumstances such not having a Métis card or Indian Status card, being raised with adoptive families, being raised in care of a Provincial Ministry, alienation from their parent(s), or not having the correct proof of Indigenous Identity, may require more assistance than others. For example, in some instances, students that do not have a Métis status card, may require a long form birth certificate to prove their connection with their Indigenous parent. In these circumstances, we anticipate that there may possibly be more work to do in order to complete the full application, but the efforts are worthwhile. Many students may not have the social supports or the technological resources to complete the applications, thus making your support even more important.
Applying for Band Funding
First Nations students can apply for funding for post-secondary through their specific First Nation. Inquiries should be made to the band office of the student’s First Nation community. Each band has a limited amount of funding to allocate each year, so it is suggested to become familiar with the funding application process for respective First Nation communities.
How to Register & Apply for Indian Status
Please speak to your parents/guardian or guidance counsellor for help on beginning this process. Often, community organizations such as the Saskatoon Indian & Métis Friendship Centre and the White Buffalo Youth Lodge host onsite application days so can be helpful to check with them. The following government website provides an overview of the steps and documentation you need:
How to Register & Apply for a Métis Citizenship Card
Please speak to your parents/guardian or guidance counsellor for help on beginning this process. The following website provides an application for Métis Citizenship with the Métis Nation. Information from the Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI) is also included: https://metisnationsk.com/citizenship/
https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/fa5b16_3bf0fc3a60894b6a8cf9b4ed1dce9e88.pdf
Local/Provincial Aboriginal Scholarships & Bursaries
Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools Bursaries
Spirit Award (no post-secondary requirement, overcoming adversity), Academic award (overall academic excellence). Please contact your guidance counsellor for the application form.
Gabriel Dumont Institute
offers the SUNTEP (Bachelor of Education) program, GDC (a two-year Arts and Science program) and funding opportunities for other diploma or degree programs for Métis students.
University of Saskatchewan
St. Thomas Moore
First Nations University of Canada (FNUC)
Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT)
Saskatchewan Indian & Gaming Authority (SIGA)
Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC)
Government of Saskatchewan
National/Canadian Indigenous Scholarships & Bursaries
Most Canadian universities have services and opportunities targeted for Indigenous students such as Indigenous student advisors, transition programs, Indigenous student centers, Elders, and much more.
Indspire
Indigenous Bursaries Search Tool
Scholarships Canada
Yconic - Student Awards (account creation needed)
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)
First Nations Technical Institute
Nutrien Indigenous Youth Financial Management Awards
Help With Employment & Job Training
Many organizations have representative workforce staff working within their human resource departments. These individuals are a great resource to tap into when exploring future options.
Gabriel Dumont Institute
Training and Employment has employment counsellors whom will support Métis youth 15-30 with job search and preparation.
Saskatoon Tribal Council
has employment counsellors whom will support First Nations youth 15-30 with job search and preparation.
http://www.sktc.sk.ca/programs-services/employment-skills-training/urban-labour-force-development/
http://www.sktc.sk.ca/programs-services/employment-skills-training/stc-career-centre/
Saskatchewan’s Aboriginal Apprenticeship Initiative
Canada Focus: Youth Employment Strategy
Page updated
Report abuse