Funding your education as a First Nations, Métis, or Inuit student — grants, bursaries, and loan programs explained
Post-secondary education is one of the most powerful tools for economic advancement, and Canada has a range of funding programs specifically designed to support Indigenous students. From federal band-delivered programs to provincial bursaries and institutional supports, this guide covers your options for 2025.
The Post-Secondary Student Support Program is the federal government's primary funding mechanism for First Nations and Inuit post-secondary students. Funding flows from CIRNAC to First Nations bands and Inuit organizations, which then distribute funds to eligible students in their communities.
PSSSP can cover tuition, books, living expenses, and transportation. The amount varies by band and available budget. Contact your band's education department to find out if you are eligible and how to apply.
UCEP supports First Nations and Inuit students who need upgrading before entering post-secondary programs. Funding covers academic upgrading, preparatory programs, and bridging courses at colleges and universities.
In addition to PSSSP, Indigenous students may be eligible for Canada Student Grants through the federal student aid system. These include:
Canada Student Grants do not need to be repaid and are separate from PSSSP. You can potentially receive both.
Indigenous students who need additional funding beyond grants can apply for Canada Student Loans through their provincial student aid office. Repayment of Canada Student Loans begins six months after leaving school. Interest-free while in school. Indigenous students with low post-graduation income may qualify for Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) which reduces or eliminates monthly payments.
| Province | Program | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | Métis Nation of Alberta bursaries | MNA citizens |
| Alberta | ATB Financial Indigenous scholarships | Indigenous Albertans |
| BC | BC Indigenous Student Awards | BC Indigenous students |
| Saskatchewan | Gabriel Dumont Institute awards | Métis students |
| Manitoba | MMF bursaries | MMF citizens |
| Ontario | Ontario Indigenous Travel Grant | On-reserve students attending off-reserve institutions |
| Nunavut | Nunavut Sivuniksavut support | Nunavut Inuit students |
Most Canadian universities and colleges have dedicated Indigenous student services offices that provide:
When applying to post-secondary institutions, explicitly identify as Indigenous on your application to access these additional supports.
Métis students are not eligible for PSSSP (which is limited to First Nations and Inuit), but have access to bursaries and scholarships through provincial Métis Nation organizations. The Métis National Council and its affiliates distribute education funding to registered Métis citizens. Amounts and programs vary significantly by province.
Inuit students can access PSSSP through Inuit organizations that receive federal funding. Regional organizations such as Makivik Corporation (Nunavik), Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (Nunavut), Nunatsiavut Government (Labrador), and the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (NWT) all have student support programs.
Most Indigenous student bursaries and grants are non-taxable if received from a registered Indigenous organization or government program. However, confirm the tax treatment of any funding you receive with your funding body or a tax professional. PSSSP funding received through a band is generally non-taxable.
KOHO is a great option for Indigenous Canadians: no monthly fees, no minimum balance, and built-in spending tracking. Use code 45ET55JSYA for a sign-up bonus.
Open KOHO Free — Code 45ET55JSYAEducation funding for Indigenous Canadians is more accessible than ever in 2025. Start the process early, apply to multiple programs simultaneously, and work closely with your community's education coordinator to maximize the non-repayable funding available to you.