Indigenous admissions
Welcome, future Bisons!
The Indigenous Student Recruitment and Community Relations Team is here to help you become a UM student.
Whether you’re coming straight from high school, transferring from an adult learning centre, or returning as a mature learner, we’re here to support you:
- Find the university program that is right for you
- Explore the university’s Indigenous programs and resources
- Complete the student application process, including help with documents, online application forms and processes
- Find financial aid and awards
- Connect with the campus Indigenous community
- Attend a one-on-one campus tour/advising session
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2,900+
First Nations, Métis and Inuit students
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165+
The highest number of Indigenous engineer graduates in Canada through the Engineering Access Program
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2015
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation opened on Fort Garry campus
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50 years
as an international leader in Indigenous Studies
Step into university with support
These support programs help Indigenous students begin or continue their studies at UM. Get academic support, cultural connection and a pathway into your chosen degree.
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Access Program
The Access program is open to first-year Indigenous students who are looking to begin university. It provides students with holistic support, including academic and financial advising, counselling, weekly tutoring, study sessions and small class sizes for students seeking degrees in the sciences, health sciences and liberal arts.
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Ongomiizwin Education
Ongomiizwin Education provides a welcoming space for Indigenous students in health programs at UM’s Bannatyne campus. You’ll find mentorship, cultural support and community grounded in Indigenous values.
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Engineering Access Program
The Engineering Access Program (ENGAP) is for Indigenous students entering the Faculty of Engineering. ENGAP offers tutoring, advising and community connection to help you build a strong foundation.
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Wawatay
Wawatay is for Indigenous students pursuing a degree through the Faculty of Science. It weaves Indigenous knowledge with Western science, offering academic guidance, cultural programming and research opportunities.
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Indigenous Business Education Partners
Indigenous Business Education Partners (IBEP) is for Indigenous students at the Asper School of Business. IBEP offers mentoring, cultural events and leadership opportunities to help you grow throughout your degree.
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Mahkwa Omushki Kiim: Pathway to Indigenous Nursing Education
Mahkwa Omushki Kiim: Pathway to Indigenous Nursing Education (PINE) is for Indigenous students preparing to enter the Bachelor of Nursing program. PINE offers academic, cultural and personal support to help you meet admission requirements and begin your studies.
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Northern Social Work Program
The Northern Social Work Program is for mature students living in Thompson and surrounding areas. Earn a Bachelor of Social Work through small classes and local field placements in northern Manitoba.
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Inner-City Social Work Program
Designed for mature students in Winnipeg with inner-city experience, this North End–based program offers flexible classes, field placements and community support as you work toward a Bachelor of Social Work.
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Paying for school
Learn how to fund your education and manage your money with practical tools and support.
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Indigenous student awards
UM offers scholarships and bursaries for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. These awards help ease financial pressure and celebrate your accomplishments.
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EmpoweringU Financial Wellness Program
EmpoweringU offers free workshops to help you build good money habits. Learn how to budget and make confident decisions about your finances.
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Indigenous-specific funding
If you are starting to apply to UM, email indigenous_recruitment@umanitoba.ca for help with Indigenous-specific funding.
If you are a current UM student, phone the Indigenous Student Centre at 204-474-8850 or email isc@umanitoba.ca for help with Indigenous-specific funding.
Early Application Tuition Prize
Apply early for admission by December 1, 2025 and you could win a $5,000 tuition prize to kickstart your studies.
Explore our programs
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Undergraduate studies
What kind of Bison are you? Start your university journey by choosing from the largest selection of programs in Manitoba. Whether you're set on your path or still exploring, we're here to help you succeed.
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Graduate studies
As a graduate student at UM, you’ll lead the way in making discoveries that matter. Build on your expertise and expand your horizons in one of our many graduate programs.
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Extended Education
Working professionals and current students: expand your skillset and advance your career with UM’s Extended Education programs. Continue your learning journey with us and broaden your impact.
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Download the print version of the Viewbook
Get a complete overview of what UM has to offer in a concise 20-page guide.
The UM Viewbook is a one-stop resource to explore our undergraduate program offerings, admission requirements, range of services and opportunities available to UM undergraduate students.
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Key highlights include information on application timeline, admissions requirements and process, gaining world-class experience and more!
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Becoming part of the Indigenous community at UM has made me more in touch with my culture. I didn't have a cultural upbringing and felt like I was missing a part of myself. Being more involved taught me so much and truly changed my life.
Rayden Seela Cree
Faculty of Arts
