Calgary Foundation · Regional
Calgary Foundation First Nations, Métis and Inuit Graduate Bursary
About this award
Get $3,000 for your tuition if you are a First Nations, Métis, or Inuit graduate student attending an Alberta institution — apply by May 15, 2026.
Two bursaries valued at $3,000 each are available. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep and does not have to be paid back. This is for you if you identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit and are pursuing advanced university studies. You must apply by May 15, 2026. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — email, portal, or phone. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Calgary Foundation how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. The funds are applied directly to tuition. Confirm with your school's financial aid office how this credit will appear on your account. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with Calgary Foundation whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.
Can you get it?
- Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident — citizenship requirement
How to apply
Review eligibility and gather your documents~1 hour
Read the official award page end-to-end. Confirm you meet every requirement before you start.
Collect reference letters2 weeks
Give your referees at least two weeks' notice and share your résumé.
Draft and revise your essays~10 hours
Use the STAR framework. Be specific, show impact, proofread twice.
Submit by May 15, 2026~1 hour
Double-check every field, save a copy, and submit at least 24 hours early.
More details
The biggest mistake is writing a generic academic summary.
Winners instead share a personal story about their connection to First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit culture and community, detailing their specific educational journey and future aspirations.
Be explicit about how exactly this money removes a barrier to your goals.
Many students submit a generic character reference.
Winners provide a letter from someone who can vouch for their community involvement or academic persistence in a graduate setting.
Focus your essay on the intersection of your cultural identity and your professional goals.