Indigenous Students

Around 12% of the student population at the University of Winnipeg declares Indigenous ancestry. We are committed to offering a variety of Indigenous focused programs, research, scholarship opportunities and access to post-secondary education.

How to Apply for Awards at The University of Winnipeg

On the UW Awards Application, you must self-declare your indigenous ancestry to ensure that the awards office can consider you for all awards that fund Indigenous students.

Apply for UW Awards!

FAQ: Do I need to have my treaty card, Métis card, or other identification documentation to self-declare as an Indigenous student for The University of Winnipeg awards?

• No, at this time we do not require you to upload documentation. We understand students may not always have documentation and ask you to self-declare.
• Please note that other award opportunities external to The University of Winnipeg may require documentation. You can learn more about external awards below.

UW Indigenous Community Awards *NEW*

The UW Indigenous Community Awards aim to acknowledge, uplift and celebrate the wonderful efforts made by Indigenous students, staff and faculty at the University of Winnipeg. Up to 8 winners will be selected annually.

Nominate a UW Indigenous Community Awardee

Deadline: closed as of March 31, 2024

External Awards Opportunities for Indigenous Students

Many organizations offer awards to assist Indigenous students. Here are a few opportunities. You can find more on our External Awards page.

• The Business Council of Manitoba Indigenous Education Awards
  
  • Awarded to full-time students in Manitoba of Indigenous ancestry with financial need.
  • Deadline: May 31, 2024 for 2024-25 academic year
• Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Awards
  • Awarded to Indigenous students currently enrolled in post-secondary studies.
  • Deadline: January 17, 2025
• Indspire
  • There is one application for all of Indspire’s bursaries, scholarships, and awards
  • Annual Deadlines: February 1, August 1, November 1, at 11:59 p.m. EST
• Louis Riel Bursaries
  • For consideration, University of Winnipeg students must complete multiple steps:
    • Step 1: UW online award application - complete and submit the General Application and indicate you are Métis and that you have financial need. The application opens in mid-August. 
    • Step 2: LRI Application - Complete and submit the Louis Riel Institute application. They will confirm if applicants are eligible by verifying Métis ancestry or MMF membership.
  • The Louis Riel Institute confirms if applicants are eligible (by verifying MMF membership) and the university chooses the recipients.
  • Deadline: you must submit both applications by October 1
• Mary Guilbault Metis Bursary
  • Awarded to Manitoba Metis post-secondary students with financial need who excel in academics and community.
  • Annual Deadline: October 1
• MMF Post-Secondary Education Support Program (PSESP)
  • Awarded to full-time and part-time students who are registered MMF citizens or in the process of being registered.
  • MMF PSESP online application is typically open from July 15 to March 1.
  • Applicants for the PSESP are also required to apply for the Louis Riel Bursaries. See details above on when and how to apply.

Services and Support for Indigenous Students

For more information visit the Aboriginal Student Services Centre, or contact Student Central at 204-779-UWIN (8946).