Iniskim Centre: All about your academic success

The Iniskim Centre offers programs and services to increase the engagement and success of Indigenous students while also raising awareness of Indigenous peoples and cultures. Mount Royal University is located in the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina, and the Îyârhe Nakoda. We are situated on land 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 the Métis Nation. We recognize and respect the diversity of all Indigenous peoples of Canada. We also increase awareness of distinct Indigenous cultures, history and protocols across the University.

A milestone on your path to academic success

The Indigenous University Bridging Program (IUBP), offered through Mount Royal University’s Iniskim Centre, assists Indigenous students who are preparing to pursue a post-secondary education. If you have Indigenous ancestry (First Nations, Métis or Inuit), meet the minimum requirements for IUBP and require upgrading in order to pursue a degree or diploma, this program is for you.

Through the IUBP, you complete the academic prerequisites for your intended post-secondary program of study. You can then apply for admission into degree or diploma programs at Mount Royal University and other post-secondary institutions.

Build a solid foundation for your post-secondary studies

Three levels of study provide upgrading in math, English, native studies, languages and sciences. You supplement these core courses with Indigenous culture, higher education preparation, and post-secondary arts and science courses.

You work with the IUBP coordinator to put the building blocks in place to achieve your academic goals. The coordinator assists you with academic and personal advising, funding applications, tutorials, cultural and social support, and social events. They also coordinate visits from community members and elders.

Live on campus

Living in Residence is an amazing way to take your learning and academic success to the next level and to enjoy the full university experience. The Indigenous Housing Program has a limited number of subsidized single and family units available in the Mount Royal Residence. These are for qualified applicants who face financial barriers. Learn more at mru.ca/Iniskim

Paying for your education

The Iniskim Centre does not provide funding to students. Typically, IUBP studies are funded by your community (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) or through the Alberta Government Foundational Learning Assistance. You cannot obtain a student loan for IUBP.

Mount Royal supports your success by offering scholarships, bursaries and awards that recognize your hard work and academic achievement. These can offset some of your costs. For more information, visit mru.ca/ MoneyMatters

Admission requirements

To qualify for admission to the IUBP, you must self-declare that you are of Indigenous ancestry (First Nations, Métis, or Inuit) and complete the online IUBP application within the dates that it is available for Fall and Winter semesters. There is no cost to apply.

Mount Royal University will obtain your Alberta high school and/or Alberta public post-secondary transcripts for you, while any transcripts from outside of Alberta need to be ordered by the applicant and sent to MRU admissions.

Steps to enrol

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Attend an information session and complete an online application.

Request transcripts from outside of Alberta, if applicable (MRU will obtain your Alberta high school and/or public postsecondary transcripts for you).

Receive an acceptance letter and book a registration appointment.

Register into classes and apply for funding.

To view upcoming information session dates, visit mru.ca/IUBP.

Dates and deadlines

Information sessions are scheduled each Spring (March – May) for students who want to start classes in September, and each fall (October – December) for a January start date.

Admission and application details mru.ca/Admission

Program details mru.ca/IUBP