Indigenous students
The university acknowledges and respects the rich diversity of our learners, their communities, their aspirations, and their cultures and traditions.
Acknowledgement of Traditional Territories
UCalgary would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the traditional territories of the Blackfoot and the people of the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Siksika, the Piikuni, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina, and the Stoney Nakoda First Nations, including Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley First Nation. We would also like to note that the University of Calgary is situated on land adjacent to where the Bow River meets the Elbow River, and that the traditional Blackfoot name of this place is “Mohkinstsis” which we now call the City of Calgary. The City of Calgary is also home to Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III.
Fast facts
742 self-identified indigenous students on campus
70+ indigenous specific courses
1 on 1 cultural and spiritual advising
$1M in Scholarships, bursaries and awards
to indigenous students in 2018-2019
Featured stories
Two great Lakota honours: A star quilt and an eagle feather
Indigenous support adviser shares the story of her journey to UCalgary
Indigenous admissions process
UCalgary’s Indigenous admissions process ensures equitable access and successful participation of undergraduate Indigenous learners.
The best way to learn more about joining our campus community is to sign-up now. From there, you can request more information and connect with your Indigenous recruiter! Sign-up now.
Indigenous Student Access Program (ISAP)
This cohort-based transition-year program offers an alternative access route for Indigenous students to enter our post-secondary degree programs. In addition to taking first-year university courses, you’ll also receive enhanced academic support, including a designated advisor and one-on-one academic advising, access to cultural workshops, leadership training, peer support and tutorials.
Applications are accepted December 15 – July 1 for fall.
Writing Symbols Lodge
Your home on campus
Indigenous student orientation
Orientation offers workshops and activities to help you become familiar with the university before starting classes.
Tiya Dagumisasriy
Indigenous Student Success and Engagement Program
This program offers academic support services, cultural and holistic workshops and leadership training in order to enhance the student experience and promote student academic achievement.
Cultural events
Cultural events are offered throughout the school year and include the Indigenous Knowledge lecture series, pipe ceremonies, workshops, Indigenous Awareness Week, social gatherings and more.
Graduation banquet and powwow
Indigenous graduates participate in a traditional Powwow that includes a Circle of Honour, where graduates are celebrated and receive ceremonial gifts.
What's next?
Apply for awards and bursaries
Make sure you also fill out our online awards application to be considered for all our high school awards and bursaries including awards that have a preference to Indigenous applicants.
Check your application status
Log into your My UCalgary to access the Student Centre where you can check your application status and if there are any outstanding documents. Common checklist items include paying your application fee, transcripts or supplementary information.
Proof of Indigenous Status
Before course registration, proof of Status may be required.
Learn more about the Indigenous admissions process documents