Indigenous students

Academics

Many of our Indigenous-focused programs and courses are open to all students. They cover contemporary issues and historical contexts. We emphasize community-based dynamic learning.

Indigenous research

For over 40 years, the UVic community has been deeply immersed in local and national Indigenous efforts. We work with Indigenous communities and organizations, Elders and educators. We offer the world’s first Indigenous law degree and have many programs on Indigenous language revitalization.

Learn more about Indigenous research at UVic and in the community.

Co-op program

Join one of the largest graduate co-op programs in the country. UVic’s Indigenous co-op program offers many opportunities for Indigenous students. You’ll connect with employers and gain culturally-relevant work experience.

UVic is home to an award-winning Indigenous International Work-Integrated Learning exchange. You could travel to partner post-secondaries in Australia and New Zealand to complete co-op work terms with Indigenous communities.

Plus, there are funding opportunities to support Indigenous students and employers as they take part in co-op experiences.

We also offer career support for Indigenous students.

Cultural programs and services

We offer services to Indigenous students at all points along their academic journey.

• • Elders' Voices
  • Indigenous counselling
  • LE,NOṈET and Campus Cousins
  • Academic support
  • Indigenous co-operative education
  • Events & ceremonies
  • Native Students Union
  • Office of Indigenous Academic & Community Engagement

Self-identifying as Indigenous

When you apply to UVic, you'll be asked if you want to self-identify. This information is used to communicate with you about services, events and programs for Indigenous students.

• Self-identification is optional and encouraged.
• If you don't self-identify, you're still welcome to access opportunities for Indigenous students at UVic.

Indigenous Citizenship Declaration

Indigenous Citizenship Declaration (ICD) enables you to confirm your eligibility for some opportunities that are specifically for Indigenous Peoples. It's required to apply for opportunities that result in financial support (e.g., scholarships, bursaries and paid work) or have limited availability (e.g. housing for Indigenous students).

• ICD can be completed at any time while you're studying at UVic.
  • New applicants can submit an ICD application after creating a Netlink ID.
• ICD is a one-time process that doesn't need to be renewed or updated.
• If you choose not to complete an ICD application, you can still access services and programs that are not tied to financial or professional advantages.

As part of the ICD process, you'll need to provide documentation that connects you with your Indigenous community. If you have difficulty getting this documentation, we can provide support and guidance.

Scholarships & financial aid

Awards and bursaries

UVic offers a variety of scholarships, awards and bursaries for Indigenous graduate students. Indigenous Citizenship Declaration is required.

• Dean's Award for Indigenous Graduate Students
• Search for scholarships
• Search for bursaries

LE,NOṈET

LE,NOṈET awards bursaries to qualifying students. These bursaries are issued in the form of top-up funding. They do not displace any existing funding for Indigenous students.

Indigenous Nation funding

Some bands and nations have funding to support your education. Contact an Indigenous recruiter if you have questions about this process.

Indigenous housing

The Indigenous housing program provides a limited number of guaranteed spots in on-campus housing for eligible students. Indigenous Citizenship Declaration is required.