Support and Resources for Indigenous Students at York University

York University proudly supports and encourages the growth of Indigenous students.

York University takes pride in offering support and services specifically for Indigenous* students. Through Indigenous-focused programs and course content, financial awards and by providing student services through the Centre for Indigenous Student Services (CISS), York offers support services for your academic and personal success. Learn more about how York supports Indigenous students from application to graduation:

Applying to York and the admission process

We recognize that most students follow a unique path to university. For this reason, York University has created an Indigenous Students Handbook and a step-by-step guide to York's application process to help Indigenous students with their application process.

In addition, self-identified Indigenous students can complete an optional Additional Information Form for Indigenous Applicants. This voluntary form provides the admissions committee with a more holistic view of your background and application. The form allows you to introduce yourself and your background, express your interest in studying at York University, your future career goals, discuss any leadership or community involvement, and share any social or personal barriers to your academic success.

Funding your university education

When you decide to embark on the university journey, one of the most important considerations is budgeting and finances. In addition to the financial assistance and options offered to all York students, York University has scholarships, bursaries, and awards specifically for Indigenous students.

If you're planning ahead, you can use our Budgeting for Aboriginal Students tool to estimate the cost of your studies and see examples of students with different financial profiles.

Support and services

York University supports and encourages First Nations, Métis and Inuit students and all who are interested in Aboriginal issues and services at the University. CISS supports the Indigenous community in the following ways:

• Provides culturally appropriate support services to the Aboriginal student population;
• Operates the Centre located on the York University Keele Campus;
• Liaises, advocates and refers students to on/off-campus resources;
• Liaises with First Nation Communities, Aboriginal agencies and organizations; and
• Provides information about educational assistance, funding procedures and guidelines
• More specifically, CISS offers Aboriginal Sharing Circle, an Elder-on-Campus Program, Writing Support and Laptop Lending Program for Indigenous students. CISS is cognizant of fostering an environment that meets the range of needs of our diverse community, while also defining Aboriginal student success as living in balance with one's physical, mental, emotional and spiritual realities

York University has made a commitment to its Indigenous students and community through The Indigenous Framework for York University: A Guide to Action. This guide, made up of 10 principles, places engagement with Indigenous communities and reconciliation as priorities for the entire University and highlights the University's commitment to Indigenous students.

Do you identify as an Indigenous student who is interested in York University? Check out our programs and admissions requirements on our Future Students website. Feel free to connect with us via Facebook or Twitter if you have any questions or would like to learn more.

* As defined by the Constitution Act 1892, section 35(2), an Aboriginal Person is considered an Indigenous Person of North America (First Nations treaty status, non-status, Métis or Inuit).