Post Secondary

Eligibility

• 24 credits or less of post-secondary unless you are in the Health Careers Access program which requires 24 or more credits.
• Living in a rural area, experiencing or have experienced poverty, or your culture has caused barriers for you to get into university.
• Preference is given to:
  • Indigenous peoples (Status, Non-Status, Inuit and Métis)
  • Residents of Northern Manitoba,
  • Low-income earners
  • Newcomers

What do you receive

• Academic advising
• Personal counselling
• Financial advisor
• Learning labs
• Tutoring

Length of program

One semester (about 15 weeks)

Cost – $0

Apply to the Access Program (opens in new window)

About

Introduction to college and career exploration.

Eligibility

• Indigenous
• Over 21
• 40S courses (or equivalent)

What do you receive

• Life skills
• Reading skills
• Writing skills
• Math skills
• Science skills
• Technology skills
• Cultural development
• Career development

Length of program

• 10 months

Cost

• Program: $6865
• Application fee: $11

How to apply

1. Create an online account with RRC (opens in new window)
2. Complete the online application form found in your account
3. Pay the application fee
4. Wait for a letter from RRC telling you whether you were accepted.
5. If you are accepted you must pay a $400 deposit to hold a spot for you.

About

Introduction to trades, college and university.

Eligibility

• 21 and older
• Indigenous
• You need and have never received grade 12 high school diploma, mature high school diploma or GED
• Available twice a week in the evenings
• Completed 24 or less credit hours of university or community college credits with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher

What do you receive

• High school equivalency

Length of program

• 16 weeks

Cost

• Contact to find out the University Preparation program cost (opens in new window)

How to apply

• Fill out this University Preparation program application (opens in new window)

About

Take university-level introduction courses with support from applications, school/ academic advisors, and mentorship.

Eligibility

• Indigenous

What do you receive

• University credits

Length of program

• One semester

Cost

• Contact to find out Transition Year Program cost (opens in new window)

How to apply

• Contact the Transition Year Program Coordinator (opens in new window)

About

Introduction to university through an Indigenous lens.

Eligibility

• Indigenous

What do you receive

• Pre-orientation activities,
• Academic learning support,
• Advising,
• Peer mentoring
• Special events
• Chance to win one of four $1,000 tuition prize draws
• ARTS 1110

Length of program

• One year (Aug. to April)

Cost

• Cost of a 3 credit course (opens in new window)

How to apply

• Apply to Qualico Bridge to Success (opens in new window)

About

Wawatay is a research-based program that offers Indigenous students the opportunity to obtain a Science degree while gaining research experience throughout their degree.

Eligibility

• Canadian Indigenous Ancestry (Status, Non-Status, Inuit or Metis)
• Qualify for entry into University 1
• Minimum average of 70% over the following courses, with no less than 60% in each course: English 40s; Math 40s; two academic 40s courses
• Willingness and ability to participate in a mandatory six-week Wawatay summer orientation (July 4 to August 11, 2023)
• Interest in science

What you receive

• Academic support
• Personal support
• Access to tutors
• Cultural workshops
• Professional development workshops
• Spiritual care
• Help applying for scholarships and bursaries
• Science degree

Length of program

• 4+ years (this program provides support while you complete a science degree)

Cost

• University tuition

How to apply

1. Gather important documents and information.
   1. Official transcript from the last school you attended
   2. Find two references and have them fill out the reference forms (opens in new window)
   3. Have proof of Indigenous ancestry (Status, Non-status, Inuit, Metis). Proof of ancestry can be genealogy/family tree
   4. Autobiography. Maximum 150 words about who you are, where you are from and your interests
   5. Community involvement short essay
   6. Interest in science short essay
   7. Goals for the next five years
   8. Major accomplishments short essay
   9. Success short essay on the things you are proud about
   10. How you envision your way of life relating to science essay (1,000 words or less)
2. Fill out the Wawatay application form (opens in new window) and submit the application by Monday May 15th, 2023(4PM Central Time).
3. Submit your application and documents to wawatay.science@umanitoba.ca or mail them to:

Wawatay Program
239 Machray Hall
186 Dysart Road
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3T 2N2

1. Attend interview with the Wawatay Lead.
2. Get $100 to pay for your UM application.
3. Apply to University (opens in new window) by June 10, 2023.

About

This program prepares you for number of different college programs, from Business Administration, Business Information Technology, and Commerce Industry Sales & Marketing, to Creative Communications, Digital Media Design – Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Social Innovation and Community Development.  

Eligibility

• Low income
• Resident of Manitoba
• Grade 12 math and English
• Aboriginal Ancestry (Certificate of Indian Status [Treaty Card] or Manitoba Metis Federation [MMF] Card or Letter of Support from a First Nations Band or a recognized Aboriginal organization)

What you receive

• Certificate 

Length of Program

• Nine months

Cost

• Application fee: $112
• Deposit: $400 
• Program and student fees: $5,626.00
• Books and supplies: $1,005.00 

How to apply

1. Get your transcript from the last school you attended.
2. Create an online account with RRC (opens in new window).
3. Complete the online application form found in your account.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. Wait for a letter from RRC telling you whether you were accepted.
6. If you are accepted you must pay a $400 deposit to hold a spot for you.

Contact: Indigenous Liaison and Advisor – Marshall Richard at 204.631.3361 or marichard@rrc.ca for more information.

About

This program provides the basics of accounting, training on Microsoft programs and accounting software.

Eligibility

• First Nations, Inuit or Metis
• Admitted into UM through University 1 or Asper School of Business

What you receive

• Academic support
• Help with scholarships and other awards
• Networking opportunities
• Employment opportunities

Cost

• Program is free
• Cost of tuition, books and supplies

How to apply

1. Gather important documents and information.
   • • Goal statement (2-3 sentences)
     • Autobiography (minimum 2 pages about who you are, what your life is like now, interest in business, volunteer experience, work experience, athletics, personal experience)
2. Print and fill out the application (opens in new window).
3. Send the application in either by email or mail to:

Indigenous Business Education Partners (IBEP)
Asper School of Business , University of Manitoba
378 Drake Centre
Winnipeg MB R3T 5V4

Telephone: 204-474-6391
Email: ibep@umanitoba.ca

Website link (opens in new window)

Contact Karen Flett – Instructor at karen.flett@mmf.mb.ca or email lrvc@mmf.mb.ca on how to apply

About

Get knowledge and practical skills for employment in various community, child welfare, and support service agencies working with children, youth, and families.

Eligibility

• Indigenous (Status, Non-Status, Metis or Inuit)
• Completed Grade 12

What you receive

• Certificate
• Practicum placement

Length of Program

• 11 months (January start) 

Cost

• $10,050

How to apply

Contact: Vikkie Brown at vbrown@urbancircle-inc.com or 204-589-4433

About

For people who are interested in advocacy, community engagement, social activism, or entrepreneurship through Indigenous teachings and ceremony.

Eligibility

• Grade 12 (one credit in Grade 12 English and Math)

What you receive

• Certificate, and credits to transfer to a diploma program in Community Development or Indigenous Social Entrepreneurship 

Length of Program

• 2 year program

Cost

• Application fee: $112
• Deposit: $400
• Tuition: $5,214
• Books: $255

How to apply

1. Get your transcript from the last school you attended.
2. Create an online account with RRC (opens in new window).
3. Complete the online application form found in your account.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. Wait for a letter from RRC telling you whether you were accepted.
6. If you are accepted you must pay a $400 deposit to hold a spot for you.

About

Similar to the RRC program, this program offers courses in Indigenous knowing and perspectives, leadership practices, financial literacy, applied economics, and professional development.

Eligibility

• Women of Indigenous ancestry
• 18 years and over
• Regular Admission: Grade 12 Math and Grade 12 English, or
• Mature Student Admission: Grade 10 Math and Grade 10 English, or
• Successful completion of Reading and Math Level Placement Assessment 

What you receive

• Certificate
• Practicum 

Length of Program

• Ten months

Cost

• Unknown 

How to apply

Contact the Centre for Aboriginal Human Resources (CAHRD) at (204) 989 7110

Or

Jennifer Mousseau – Team Lead of Education & Training Programs at (204) 953-5820 ext. 207 or jmousseau@kanikanichihk.ca 

About

The Indigenous and Norther Counselling program gives you the knowledge and skills required to deliver culturally proficient counselling for Indigenous Northern populations.

Eligibility

• Grade 12 or equivalent
• Mature student
• Currently employed as a counsellor or have a recommendation by a current or previous employer
• Pass child and adult abuse checks
• Pass a criminal records check
• A personal letter about why you want to become a counsellor
• A letter from a community leader

What you receive

• Certificate in Counselling 

Length of Program

• Two years, online

Cost

• Application fee: free
• Tuition: $6,700

How to apply

• Fill out the application (opens in new window).
• Mail the application to:

Enrolment Services
Box 3000
436 7th street
The Pas, Manitoba
R9A1M7

About

The Health Careers Access Program (opens in new window) prepares you for further education in Medicine, Dentistry, Dental Hygiene, Pharmacy, Medical Rehabilitation Science (Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Respiratory Therapy) and Nursing

Eligibility

• Minimum average 70% but no less than 60% in one of these courses:
  • English 40S
  • Mathematics 40S
  • Two academic 40S
• Or a mature student or transfer student

What you receive

• Academic advising
• Personal counselling
• Smaller classes
• Financial advising

Cost

• Application fee: $100 to UM
• Program: free

How to apply

• Fill out the HCAP application form (opens in new window)

About

The Pathway to Health program prepares you for a career path in Dental Assisting, Nursing, Para medicine Science Laboratory Technology, or Veterinary Technology

Eligibility

• Grade 12
• Indigenous

Length of Program

• Nine months (starts in August)

Cost

• Application: $112
• Deposit: $400
• Tuition: $5,626
• Books and supplies: $750
• Other fees: $255

How to apply

1. Get your transcript from the last school you attended.
2. Create an online account with RRC (opens in new window).
3. Complete the online application form found in your account.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. Wait for a letter from RRC telling you whether you were accepted.
6. If you are accepted you must pay a $400 deposit to hold a spot for you.

About

PINE helps you get ready for a Bachelor of Nursing program.

Eligibility

• First 30 credits towards your nursing degree

What you receive

• Smaller class sizes
• Elder-in-Residence
• Student advisor
• Academic coach
• Cultural supports

Cost

• Application fee: $100

How to apply

1. Gather important documents and information:
   • • Most recent transcript
     • Two references to fill out reference forms in the application
     • Employment/ community involvement information
     • Your financial information (income and sponsorship)
     • Short essay about your interests and reasons for nursing

2. Apply to Mahkwa omushki kiim program (opens in new window)
3. Create an online account with UM’s application portal (opens in new window)
4. Apply for University 1

About

The Health Care Aide & Health Unit Clerk program (opens in new window) prepares students for employment in acute and long-term healthcare facilities.

Eligibility

• Grade 12 with English 40S or Mature Grade 12 diploma or GED
• Indigenous
• Double vaccinated

What you receive

• Life skills training
• Cultural programming 

Length of Program

• Ten months

Cost

• $10,500 

How to apply

1. Gather important documents and information:
   • • Two reference letters
     • Handwritten essay on why you want to take the program
     • High school transcripts
     • Current criminal record check with vulnerable sector check
     • Current Child and Adult abuse registry
     • Work experience
2. Complete the application (opens in new window)
3. Drop off or mail your application to:

519 Selkirk Avenue
Winnipeg, MB
R2W2M6

About

The Pathways to Engineering Technology program (opens in new window) prepares you for college with a focus on civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

Eligibility

• Grade 12
• Indigenous ancestry
• Low-income

What you receive

• Certificate 

Length of Program

• Nine months 

Cost

• Application fee: $105
• Deposit: $400
• Tuition: $6,200-$6,900
• Books: $750
• Other fees: $255

How to apply

1. Get your transcript from the last school you attended.
2. Create an online account with RRC (opens in new window).
3. Complete the online application form found in your account.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. Wait for a letter from RRC telling you whether you were accepted.
6. If you are accepted you must pay $400 deposit to hold a spot for you.

About

ENGAP helps prepare you for university-level math and reading required for education in engineering.

Eligibility

• Indigenous

What you receive

• 2-week summer orientation
• Supports

Length of Program

• Nine months

How to apply

1. Gather important documents and information:
   • • Official transcript from the last school you attended
     • Two completed reference forms
     • Proof of Indigenous ancestry (cards or genealogy)
     • Community activities experience
     • Essay on your major accomplishments
     • Employment history
     • Autobiography
2. Fill out the application (opens in new window)
3. Email your application to engap@umanitoba.ca

About

The Culinary Skills Certificate (opens in new window) helps you learn the fundamental skills and knowledge for a career in the culinary industry. 

Eligibility

• Grade 12
• English language requirement 

What you receive

• Certificate
• Food handlers certificate
• WHMIS certificate
• Fire safety training
• Paid co-op

Length of Program

• One year (starts at the end of August) 

Cost

• Application: $112
• Deposit: $400
• Tuition: $7,018
• Books and supplies: $2,300
• Other fees: $320

How to apply

1. Get your transcript from the last school you attended.
2. Create an online account with RRC (opens in new window).
3. Complete the online application form found in your account.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. Wait for a letter from RRC telling you whether you were accepted.
6. If you are accepted you must pay $400 deposit to hold a spot for you.

About

The Introduction to Trades (Indigenous) program (opens in new window) prepares you to transition to more specific trades like construction, plumbing or automotive repair. The program also includes Indigenous cultural values, traditions, and beliefs by reinforcing positive cultural identity and self-esteem.

Eligibility

• Grade 12
• Indigenous ancestry
• Attend information session 

What you receive

• Certificate 

Length of Program

• Five months

Cost

• Application fee: $112
• Deposit: $400
• Tuition: $3,253
• Books and supplies: $600
• Other fees: $200

How to apply

1. Get your transcript from the last school you attended.
2. Create an online account with RRC (opens in new window).
3. Complete the online application form found in your account.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. Wait for a letter from RRC telling you whether you were accepted.
6. If you are accepted you must pay a $400 deposit to hold a spot for you.

About

The Construction Labourer Certificate (opens in new window) gives you the basic skills required to work in the construction industry through an Indigenous lens. This includes connections to culture, community and identity through traditional Indigenous teachings.

Eligibility

• Indigenous
• Between 18-30 years old
• Grade 10 English and Math
• Attend a meeting with the program team 

What you receive

• Certificate
• WHMIS
• CPR
• First Aid
• Paid practicum 

Length of Program

• Five months 

Cost

• Application fee: free
• Deposit: none
• Tuition: $3,570
• Books and supplies: $725
• Other fees: $260

How to apply

1. Get your transcript from the last school you attended.
2. Create an online account with RRC (opens in new window).
3. Complete the online application form found in your account.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. Wait for a letter from RRC telling you whether you were accepted.
6. If you are accepted you must pay a $400 deposit to hold a spot for you. 

About

The Welding Program (opens in new window) provides you with the knowledge and skills to work in the welding industry. This includes careers in assembly plants, factories, shipbuilding, and refineries.

Eligibility

• Indigenous
• High school diploma
• Grade 12 Math and English

What you receive

• Certificate
• WHMIS training
• Shop safety training
• Blueprint reading
• Metal fabrication
• Welding training

Length of Program

• Five years 

Cost

• Unknown

How to apply

Contact: (204) 987-9570 

About

The Plumbing Program (opens in new window) provides you with the skills and knowledge needed to work in the plumbing field.

Eligibility

• Indigenous
• Grade 12 or close to graduation
• Steel-toed boots
• Good math skills
• Good drawing skills 

What you receive

• Certificate 

Length of Program

• Ten months

Cost

• Unknown 

How to apply

Contact: (204) 987-9570    

This program assists people who need training to find employment. WTE provides support services and financial support for programs 12 to 52 weeks, or up to 2-year programs (opens in new window) for high demand occupations. This program will not pay for tuition.

Eligibility

• Have a current or previous Employment Insurance (EI) claim
• Employed individuals who need more skills for better employment
• Receiving Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) benefits in Manitoba
• You are unemployed or about to lose your job

Apply

Contact your local Manitoba Jobs and Skills Development Centre (MSJD) to make an appointment.
In Winnipeg: 204-945-0575

Toll-Free (outside Winnipeg): 1-866-332-5077

Email: mjsd@gov.mb.ca

Each Band has a different process for how to apply for education funding. For more information, call your Band or go to your Band office and speak to someone. 

Student Loans can come from the government or a bank, however the loan money has to be paid back.

Government loans, available through Manitoba Student Aid, don’t accumulate interest until you stop being a full-time student. You will have six months after school ends to find a job and start paying the loan back.

Your can ask your bank for a line of credit or a loan to pay for school. These loans have to be paid back regularly and have higher interest rates than student loans.

Manitoba Student Aid

Manitoba Student Aid provides money for post-secondary studies through loans, bursaries and grants. In order to receive the bursaries and grants you have to apply for a loan.

Eligibility

• You are a Canadian Citizen
• You live in Manitoba
• You are studying at a designated school or program
• If you are over 22 years old and a first-time applicant, you will have to do a credit check.
• Have 60% course load (or less if you have a registered disability)

Apply (one application for two loans) 

1. Create an account (opens in new window). You will need your social insurance number create an account.
2. Submit the application in the online portal. The approval process can take up to two weeks . You can still log in and check your application status.
3. Review your assessment. Keep checking your email inbox until you receive an email from MSA to check your account. When you enter your account after this email, check the following tabs: My Award Information, My Required Information and My Assessment Details.
4. Submit all the required information:
   • Program name
   • Program start and end date
   • Program course load (contact your school if you don’t know what it is)
   • Educational institution or campus name
   • Registrar’s email address and costs of your program (in Canadian funds) if attending and out-of-province school
   • All post-secondary studies you have taken
   • Total income you made last year as found on line 15000 of last year’s income tax return
   • Any scholarships, bursaries and other funding you will receive. This includes a tuition-waiver
   • Your direct deposit information for your bank account