INDIGENOUS STUDENTS 2025/26
BE YOUR TRUE SELF
SAMUEL METACAT-YAH
Bachelor of Science — Environmental Science
Originally from Dene Tha' First Nation, Metacat-Yah chose to pursue environmental science as it combined both his aptitude for science and his strong connection to the land. Moving to Mount Royal (his first time away from home), Metacat-Yah found a welcoming and supportive community, especially through the Iniskim Centre’s programs and events.
WELCOME TO THE INISKIM CENTRE
The Iniskim Centre offers programs and services to increase the engagement and success of Indigenous students while also raising awareness of Indigenous peoples, cultures and history. With any program you choose, the Iniskim Centre helps you prepare to succeed in your academic pursuits and future career. Dedicated staff encourage you throughout your studies, providing resources such as academic and cultural support, academic advising, writing support and scholarship information.
mru.ca/Iniskim
NAMING OF INISKIM
Iniskim means Buffalo Calling Stone, which holds special meaning to the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot).
Long ago, when food was scarce for the people of the plains, the inii (buffalo) showed compassion and sent a message through Weasel Woman. As she collected water from the river, a stone called to her from the bushes and told her to perform a ceremony to call the buffalo towards the pisskan (buffalo jump). She took the Iniskim back to camp and told the spiritual leaders. The people gathered and performed the ceremony. Soon, they began to have successful hunts. The buffalo provided enough food, better shelter and tools for the people to thrive.
Today, we refer to education as the new inii, and we are calling out to students to attend university for the opportunity to provide better lives for their communities, families and themselves.
BRING YOUR WHOLE SELF TO MRU
Mount Royal offers unique programs, supports and cultural experiences for Indigenous students. Explore your interests, expand your mind and confidently prepare for the future.
INDIGENOUS UNIVERSITY BRIDGING PROGRAM
The Indigenous University Bridging Program (IUBP) is a university preparation program for students of Indigenous ancestry. Through the IUBP, you complete the academic prerequisites for your intended post-secondary program. You can then apply for admission into degree or diploma programs at MRU and other post-secondary institutions.
IUBP offers three levels of study for students requiring upgrading with a concentration in math and English. These core subjects are supplemented with courses in Indigenous culture, university preparation and postsecondary arts and science.
Throughout the program, students are supported with tutorial services, academic and personal advising, social events and visits from community members.
mru.ca/IUBP
STUDENT SUCCESS PROGRAM
Each week, the Student Success Program offers a variety of services for Indigenous students that help foster a sense of wellness and belonging.
STUDENT SUCCESS WORKSHOPS
Workshops cover a range of topics, including preparing for university, practical learning strategies, math, writing and more.
DROP-IN SUPPORT
For personalized support, schedule one-on-one meetings to discuss anything from mental health concerns and course selection to time management, test preparation and staying motivated.
COUNSELLING SERVICES
You can request to meet with an MRU counsellor in the Iniskim Centre, offering you support in a familiar and comfortable space.
MEDICINE TRAIL PROGRAM Naato’ohsokay
The Medicine Trail Program provides cultural insight and advice on Indigenous programming and development. By fostering a holistic approach to wellness, the program offers traditional medicines for smudging within the Iniskim Centre, as well as access to ceremonies throughout the year. Take part in group cultural teachings or spend time with our coordinator, who is here to support and guide you. The coordinator can also connect your professors with wisdom keepers and elders.
mru.ca/MedicineTrail
BMO INDIGENOUS PEER MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Through sharing of cultural traditions and values, the BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program provides peer-to-peer mentorship experiences for Indigenous students at Mount Royal. The program empowers both the mentor and mentee to establish relationships and hone their academic skills through education, culture, community and wellness.
mru.ca/BMOPeerMentor
Inspired by Indigenous ways of knowing, the Indigenous Career Mentorship Program helps prepare students to thrive in their chosen career path. With the support and guidance of a one-on-one mentor, students can develop new skills, build confidence, gain industry-specific knowledge and make valuable professional connections.
mru.ca/IndigenousCareerMentorship
INDIGENOUS HOUSING PROGRAM
The Indigenous Housing Program provides culturally supported and affordable singleroom and family units for students who self-identify as First Nations, Métis, Nonstatus or Inuit. Students qualify for housing based on academic readiness, academic and career goals, and financial need.
mru.ca/IHP
All self-identified Indigenous students are eligible for a bursary to reduce residence fees. Inquire with Iniskim's Housing and Events Coordinator today! Bursaries and rooms are limited.
INDIVIDUAL UNITS
Individual units are located in East Residence townhousestyle units and West Residence apartments, among Indigenous and non-Indigenous students.
FAMILY UNITS
Residents of family units live on campus year-round with their children. Family units are in the East Residence townhouses — a quiet area of campus that offers a small, family-friendly community with play structures and a garden.
FINANCING OPTIONS
If you're wondering about how to finance your education or if you qualify for funding, we're here to help! The following options are available to Indigenous students.
SPONSORSHIP
If you are a sponsored student approved to have your tuition and mandatory fees billed to a third party (employer/sponsoring agency — Advancing Futures/Band), please ensure all proper documentation is forwarded to MRU Financial Services before each fee deadline. mru.ca/StudentSponsorships
SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES
Mount Royal offers hundreds of awards based on academic success, your financial situation and extracurricular participation. Accepted Indigenous students are eligible for both general and Indigenous-specific scholarships and bursaries. Apply for awards from Nov. 1 to March 1. mru.ca/Awards
STUDENT LOANS
If you are receiving Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada/Band Funds, you can still apply for government student loans should you require additional funding. For residents of Alberta, visit studentaid.alberta.ca to apply for government loans online.
CULTURE AND CONNECTION
JONAS MACLAURIN Bachelor of Communication — Public Relations
Jonas MacLaurin's MRU journey began in the Indigenous University Bridging Program where he discovered his passion for public relations (PR). His studies included an exchange to Scotland, where he broadened his PR skills and explored his heritage. As an Iniskim peer mentor, MacLaurin helped support Indigenous culture on campus and create a welcoming environment for all.
