The application period is currently closed.
Established in 2011, the FNIGC National Student Bursary is awarded each year to exceptional First Nations students enrolled in college or university studying in fields related to the advancement of First Nations data sovereignty.
Since it was established, the National Student Bursary has awarded grants of up to $2,500 and free registration to The Fundamentals of OCAP® course to numerous outstanding students. Our OCAP® course helps students, researchers, and others better understand the First Nations principles of ownership, control, access, and possession as they relate to data sovereignty, information governance, and ethical community-based research.
Applications undergo a rigorous screening and review process to identify the top-rated applicants.
All students applying to the National Student Bursary must provide the following information to be eligible for FNIGC’s National Student Bursary:
- Evidence of First Nations status (such as a copy of a status card or membership affirmation),
- Evidence of student status (such as a letter of acceptance or a transcript of marks, etc.),
- Letter of reference (from an employer, professor, community member, etc.).
As part of the application process, students must also complete a short essay (no more than 500 words) that answers the question:
- Why is quality data important to First Nations?
Students who meet the mandatory criteria will have their essay reviewed and rated by a committee established by the FNIGC Board of Directors, according to a rating scale and matrix that will be posted online with a more detailed set of application instructions.
For more information, please see our news release, and if you’re ready to apply, find the online application here.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who can apply for the bursary?
Any First Nations student pursuing a post-secondary degree in the fields of health, social sciences, or applied sciences, or studying issues related to First Nations data sovereignty. Proof of First Nations status will be required.
- What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is December 16, 2021, at 4:00 p.m. EST. Applications received after the due date posted will not be accepted.
- What is the process?
Eligible First Nations students must complete the online application form and submit a 500-word essay that speaks to why quality data is important to First Nations.
All fields on the application form must be completed and all additional attachments included in an e-mail (see online form) in order for applications to be processed. Additional attachments should be sent via email to [email protected].
- When will the winners be announced?
Bursary winners will be announced in March 2022 and posted on FNIGC’s website.
By applying, the winner consents to the use of their name and address (City/First Nation only) and photograph in any related FNIGC publicity. Applications are subject to verification for eligibility.
If you have any questions or issues with completing the application process, please reach out to [email protected]