Indigenous students

A student at the far end of the table uses an eyedropper while 2 other students look on

With the support of the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre, Brae uses his chemistry knowledge to focus on indigenizing beauty. As part of that work, he plans and facilitates workshops that integrate Indigenous medicines and remedies with skincare products.

Boozhoo, shé:kon, waachjiiye, tansi, aanii, tungasugiit, tawnshi, greetings!

At Waterloo, you’ll find resources and opportunities, from weekly meetups and scholarships to an on-campus living community for Indigenous students.

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Scholarships and bursaries

Entrance scholarships, awarded to new Waterloo students, are based primarily on academic and personal achievement while bursaries are based on financial need.

Entrance scholarships and bursaries for Indigenous students →
Entrance scholarships available to all students →
Earn money and experience through Waterloo's co-op program →

Tuition waivers for First Nations communities

Waterloo is committed to addressing the goals of truth and reconciliation and removing or reducing the financial barriers of attending university.

We waive the application fee for all Indigenous applicants.
We also waive tuition fees for Waterloo students who are members of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation or Six Nations of the Grand River (on whose traditional territory the University of Waterloo is situated).
First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students from Canadian provinces and territories outside Ontario can pay the lower tuition rate for Ontario students. Native American students from the continental U.S. recognized by the Jay Treaty are also eligible for Ontario tuition rates instead of international student tuition.

More about the tuition waiver →

Life at Waterloo

Indigenous students walking outside together

Feel at home

Be part of our close-knit on-campus residence community that supports Indigenous first-year students.

Regalia feathers

Celebrate

The Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre (WISC) hosts an annual Pow Wow and weekly Soup and Bannock Days.

Ceremonial fire grounds and medicine garden

Reflect

The Ceremonial Fire Grounds and Medicine Garden offer a sacred space for individual use, ceremonies, education, and other gatherings.

Supporting your success

In addition to the resources for all Waterloo students, Indigenous students have access to a range of services. From weekly soup and bannock lunches to an Indigenous counsellor and support for students interested in entrepreneurship, there are staff and resources dedicated to supporting your time at Waterloo.

Resources and supports for Indigenous students

Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre (WISC)

Through cultural gatherings, elder teachings, and workshops, WISC creates a space for community, connection, and friendship among students, staff, and professors.

Student associations

Connect with other Indigenous students through the Indigenous Student Association or meet professors and other students in STEM through the American Indian Science and Engineering Society.

Flint Hub incubator

Flint Hub is a community-driven space where Indigenous students can explore their entrepreneurial aspirations and contribute to the growth of Indigenous economies.

Student counsellor

An Indigenous counsellor can help with school, family or relationships, or mental health challenges. Counselling Services also provides one-on-one counselling, group therapy, and skills seminars.

Office of Indigenous Relations (OIR)

OIR is a central hub for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students, researchers, professors, staff, and allies. OIR provides guidance, support, and resources to strengthen our shared vision of reconciliation.

Indigenous Speakers Series

An annual lecture is organized by Indigenous and settler professors, staff, and students.

Outdoor gathering space

A new outdoor space will be available for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit events, celebrations, and teachings starting this fall. The design and central location highlights the Indigenous presence on campus, including histories tied to the area as well as contemporary Indigenous diversity.

Drawing of the new outdoor space showing trees and the three part roof in oranges and browns

Learn more about student services →

Starting your university journey? Not sure where to start?

Choosing a university for your education can seem like a big task. With so many choices, where do you start? Here are some resources that will help regardless of which university you plan to attend.

Already studied at college or university?

If you've already completed some college or university, you'll be considered a transfer student and may be eligible for transfer credits. Learn how to apply as a transfer student and about possible transfer credits.

Finding community as an Indigenous student at Waterloo

Adjusting to university life can be difficult but with the right support, your transition into Waterloo life can become easier. Brae, an Honours Chemistry student can attest to that.

Devon, an Environment, Resources and Sustainability, adds that "the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre created a space for me to be comfortable in."

Read about Devon's and Brae's experiences and how they've been able to feel connected to the campus.

Watch video on YouTube

Enhance your learning

Many of Waterloo's programs allow you to include a specialization or a minor, which consists of 8 to 10 courses. These minors are available to all Waterloo students. The minors and language courses listed here are taught at United College, which is part of the University of Waterloo and located on our main campus.

Indigenous Studies minor

Through the Indigenous Studies minor, you can deepen your understanding of Indigenous cultures, history, languages, and contemporary challenges. Sample courses include the Indigenous Experience in Canada and Indigenous Rights in Global Context.

Indigenous Entrepreneurship minor

Learn from Indigenous instructors with deeply-held expertise in entrepreneurship and social justice by including the Indigenous Entrepreneurship minor as part of your degree. Available to students in any program at Waterloo or as a stand-alone diploma if you have successfully completed at least one year of college or university.

Learn Mohawk language (Kanien’kéha)

Offered in collaboration with the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre at United College, Mohawk language (Kanien’kéha) courses are available to Waterloo students in any program who have minimal to no knowledge of Kanien’kéha.