WHERE THE RIVERS MEET
Mount Royal University is situated on an ancient and storied land that is steeped in ceremony and history that, until recently, was occupied exclusively by people indigenous to this place. With gratitude and reciprocity, Mount Royal acknowledges the relationships to the land and all beings, and the songs, stories and teachings of the Siksika Nation, the Piikani Nation, the Kainai Nation, the Îethka Stoney Nakoda Nation (consisting of the Chiniki, Bearspaw and Goodstoney Nations), the people of the Tsuut’ina Nation and the Métis.
SUPPORTING INDIGENOUS STUDENT SUCCESS
Mount Royal University is committed to doing its part to address the legacy of broken promises and rebuild the relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples in Calgary and across the country.
Our goal is to indigenize Mount Royal University, to respect and embrace Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing, to integrate Indigenous teachings and practices, to support Indigenous learners, and to honour Indigenous experiences and identities.
WELCOME TO THE INISKIM CENTRE
The Iniskim Centre supports Indigenous students on their academic journey, offering programs and services that foster success while also raising awareness of Indigenous peoples, cultures and history.
No matter what program you choose, the Iniskim Centre helps you prepare for success in both your studies and future career. Our dedicated staff encourage you throughout your studies, providing resources such as academic and cultural support, academic advising, writing support and scholarship information.
MRU.CA/INISKIM
NAMING OF INISKIM
Iniskim means Buffalo Calling Stone, which holds special meaning to the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot).
Long ago, when food was scarce for the people of the plains, the inii (buffalo) showed compassion and sent a message through Weasel Woman. As she collected water from the river, a stone called to her from the bushes and told her to perform a ceremony to call the buffalo towards the pisskan (buffalo jump). She took the Iniskim back to camp and told the spiritual leaders. The people gathered and performed the ceremony, and soon the buffalo returned. The buffalo provided enough food, better shelter and tools for the people to thrive.
Today, we refer to education as the new inii, and we are calling out to students to attend university for the opportunity to provide better lives for their communities, families and themselves.
BRING YOUR WHOLE SELF TO MRU
Indigenous focused programs and opportunities
With over 100 years of history, Mount Royal is dedicated to providing an exceptional undergraduate experience. Along with innovative programs taught by passionate professors in small class sizes, we offer dedicated programs, services, supports and cultural experiences for Indigenous students. Explore your interests, connect with community and confidently prepare for the future.
MRU.CA/IUBP
Indigenous University Bridging Program
The Indigenous University Bridging Program (IUBP) helps students of Indigenous ancestry prepare for post-secondary studies. Through IUBP, you’ll complete the academic prerequisites needed to apply for degree or diploma programs at MRU or other institutions. With three levels of study, the program focuses on upgrading math and English while incorporating Indigenous culture, university preparation, and foundational courses in arts and science.
STUDENT SUCCESS PROGRAM
Each week, the Student Success Program offers a variety of services for Indigenous students that help foster a sense of wellness and belonging.
Student success workshops
Gain practical skills to help you thrive at university. Workshops cover topics like preparing for university, effective learning strategies, math, writing and more.
Drop-in support
Need one-on-one guidance? Meet with a staff member to discuss anything from course selection and test preparation to time management, motivation and mental wellness.
Counselling services
If you’re looking for additional support, you can request to meet with an MRU counsellor right in the Iniskim Centre — offering a safe and familiar space to talk.
EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
At MRU, you’ll have access to tutorial services, academic and personal advising, social events and visits from community members.
BMO INDIGENOUS PEER MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Through sharing of cultural traditions and values, the BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program provides peer-to-peer mentorship experiences for Indigenous students at Mount Royal. The program empowers both the mentor and mentee to establish relationships and hone their academic skills through education, culture, community and wellness.
MRU.CA/MEDICINETRAIL
MEDICINE TRAIL PROGRAM NAATO’OHSOKAY
The Medicine Trail Program provides cultural insight and advice on Indigenous programming and development. By fostering a holistic approach to wellness, the program offers traditional medicines for smudging within the Iniskim Centre, as well as access to ceremonies throughout the year. Take part in group cultural teachings or spend time with our coordinator, who is here to support and guide you.
INDIGENOUS CAREER MENTORSHIP
Inspired by Indigenous ways of knowing, the Indigenous Mentorship program helps prepare students to thrive in their chosen career path. With the support and guidance of a one-on-one mentor, students can develop new skills, build confidence, gain industry-specific knowledge and make valuable professional connections.
MRU.CA/BMOPEERMENTOR
INDIGENOUS HOUSING PROGRAM
The Indigenous Housing Program provides culturally supported and affordable single-room and family units for students who self-identify as First Nations, Métis, Non-status or Inuit. Students qualify for housing based on academic readiness, academic and career goals, and financial need.
East Residence
TOWNHOUSE
TWO-BEDROOM TOWNHOUSE
All units include:
» private, lockable and furnished bedrooms (just bring your bedding)
» kitchen and furnished living space, including a Smart TV (bring your own dishes and cookware)
» bathrooms (shared by no more than two students)
» utilities and internet
» laundry facilities operated by a mobile app
» storage lockers
APPLICATIONS FOR RESIDENCE OPEN OCT. 1, 2025
Single units
Single units are located in East Residence townhouse-style units and West Residence apartments, among Indigenous students and non-Indigenous students.
Family units
Residents of family units live on campus year-round with their children. Family units are in the East Residence townhouses — a quiet area of campus that offers a small, family-friendly community with play structures and a garden.
“Housing has been a big part of my success. I’ve been able to save money because my costs were literally cut in half. I never miss a class because it’s walkable, and it has been such a privilege to go to the library at night...right next door.”
Recent graduate and former resident
REDUCE RESIDENCE FEES
ALL SELF-IDENTIFIED INDIGENOUS STUDENTS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR A BURSARY TO REDUCE RESIDENCE FEES. Don’t wait — inquire with Iniskim’s housing and events coordinator today. Bursaries and rooms are limited.
INTERIOR OF WEST RESIDENCE APARTMENT
FINANCING OPTIONS
If you’re wondering about how to finance your education or if you qualify for funding, we’re here to help. The following options are available to Indigenous students:
MRU.CA/STUDENTSPONSORSHIPS Sponsorship
If you are a sponsored student approved to have your tuition and mandatory fees billed to a third party (employer/sponsoring agency — Advancing Futures/ Band), please ensure all proper documentation is forwarded to Financial Services before each fee deadline.
MRU.CA/AWARDS Scholarships and bursaries
Mount Royal offers hundreds of awards based on academic success, your financial situation and extracurricular participation. Accepted Indigenous students are eligible for both general and Indigenousspecific scholarships and bursaries. Apply for awards from Nov. 1 to March 1.
Student loans
If you are receiving Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada/Band Funds, you can still apply for Government Student Loans should you require additional funding. For residents of Alberta, visit studentaid.alberta.ca to apply for government loans online.
FROM THE TUNDRA TO THE COCKPIT
Growing up in Rankin Inlet, Sid Nichol was no stranger to planes. Air travel was simply part of life in the North. Now, thanks to a partnership between Mount Royal University and Canadian North, he’s turning that lifelong connection into a career. In MRU’s Aviation program, Sid is working toward his commercial pilot’s licence — and inspiring a new generation of northern youth to take flight.
Everyone is willing to help at MRU — it’s a great program. You get to know your instructors on a personal level and they’re always just a text away.
— Sid Nichol, Aviation student, MRU
INISKIM CENTRE
Mount Royal University
4825 Mount Royal Gate SW Calgary, AB T3E 6K6
T110, on the first level
t. 403.440.5596
f. 403.440.7207
e. iniskimcentre@mtroyal.ca
mru.ca/Indigenous