The University of Guelph is pleased to announce the creation of the Local First Nations Award for future and current students from the 11 First Nations communities on whose treaty lands and territories the University resides.
The Local First Nations Award will provide funds equivalent to tuition for students enrolled in associate diploma and undergraduate programs. Funds for graduate programs are available up to $10,000 per year.
Fully funded by the University, the award is an act of reconciliation that aligns with the University's Indigenous Initiatives Strategy, Bi-Naagwad | It Comes Into View, meant to remove barriers to postsecondary education for First Nations students.
Eligible students must be a registered status member of one of the following First Nations communities:
- Aamjiwnaang
- Bkejwanong (Walpole Island)
- Caldwell
- Chippewas of the Thames
- Eelūnaapéewii Lahkéewiit (Delaware Nation at Moraviantown)
- Kettle and Stoney Point
- Mississaugas of the Credit
- Munsee-Delaware
- Nation Huronne-Wendat/Huron-Wendat
- Oneida of the Thames
- Six Nations of the Grand River
Eligibility extends to students registered on a part- or full-time basis at the University of Guelph, University of Guelph-Humber or Ridgetown campuses.
"Post-secondary education is not only a tool for personal growth, it is essential to the future of our Nations," says Chief Nikki van Oirschot of Caldwell First Nation. "We are encouraged to see the University of Guelph take a meaningful step forward in addressing the barriers that have long prevented First Nations students from accessing higher education.
"This award responds directly to Call to Action 11 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which was released nearly a decade ago. The time for implementation is now. We applaud the University of Guelph for recognizing our Nationhood, not just our communities, and for helping ensure that our students are supported, respected, and empowered to pursue their academic journeys without the weight of financial burden."
Students are only required to apply once and can use the award to support multiple years of a degree or program.
"One of the tenets of our commitment to decolonization and reconciliation is supporting equitable access to education," says Dr. Rene Van Acker, interim president and vice-chancellor. "We know that the work that needs to be done will span generations, and this award is an important part of our efforts to enhance opportunities for First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
"The Local First Nations Award also recognizes that tuition is not the only barrier to higher education. This award can also be put towards other areas of a First Nations student experience to help remove other potential barriers to education."
The Local First Nations Award will be in place for fall 2025; applications are due by Aug. 1. For more information visit Student Financial Services online for the associate diploma application link, the undergraduate application link or the graduate application link.
Visit the University's Financial Aid webpage for more information about support for First Nations, Inuit and Métis students.
