How to apply

2026 Direct Entry Canadian Indigenous Ancestry Admissions Category:

Direct Entry applicants are those who have not attended a post-secondary institution or have completed fewer than 24 credit hours at a recognized university or college.

1. An online application process that includes an autobiography, essay question with two reference letters.
2. First Nations, Métis and Inuit applicants must submit documentation to support their declaration of Indigenous ancestry. One of the following will be accepted.
   • A copy of a Status or Treaty card
   • A copy of a Métis citizenship card
   • A copy of a Nunavut Trust Certificate card
   • Roll number or any other proof accepted by Inuit communities
   • Any other proof of (status or non-status) accepted by the First Nations communities.
3. If none of these forms of documentation are available, enquiries may be made to the University of Manitoba Admissions Office regarding other acceptable documentation.
   • Students will be assessed and ranked based on their essay question, formal interview and high school average
   • Students will need a minimum average of 70% over the following courses, with no less than 60% in each:
     • English 40S
     • Mathematics 40S
     • Two academic 40S courses (View a complete list of 40S academic courses).

Admissions through this category will create a cohort of Indigenous students, known as Wawatay Scholars, who demonstrate a strong interest in science. These students will receive guidance and support to access appropriate preparatory courses, if needed, during their first year, helping to reduce a significant barrier to degree completion.

As part of the cohort, students will participate in a mandatory four-week summer orientation designed to foster a supportive community, develop essential academic skills, and provide direction on accessing key resources for the upcoming terms.

Students will be required to take six credit hours of Wawatay interdisciplinary science courses which focus on the core principles of scientific theory essential for conducting research in an interdisciplinary laboratory environment, and introduction to research concepts and skills, including scientific communication (both written and oral), critical thinking, and the application of laboratory protocols and procedures.

For detailed information regarding applicant admission requirements for Direct Entry, please visit Direct Entry Admissions Requirements.

Helping you find additional funding

Wawatay will help you complete applications for funding through First Nation Educational Authority, Métis funding programs and other programs that offer scholarships and bursaries.

Please note that the Wawatay application process has changed and will now be through the Canadian Indigenous Ancestry Category for the Faculty of Science.

1. Application: Apply through the University Admissions website. The deadline is March 1.
2. Payment: Once payment is made, make sure to check your email for a status change on your application.
3. Additional requirements for Wawatay: Once you receive this email, you will be able to view the additional requirements for Wawatay that will be completed through the admissions portal. This includes:
   • Essay question
   • Autobiographical questions
   • References
   • Proof of Indigenous Ancestry  

Please note that these documents are all due by March 15.

4. Selection: This will take place for interviews and invites sent out by the end of March.
5. Interview: Interviews happen in early April.
6. Acceptance letters: Letters are sent out in late April.

If you do not fill out and submit the additional requirements, as mentioned earlier under point 3, your application will not be considered for Wawatay.

Direct Entry Canadian Indigenous Ancestry Admissions Category

Start your direct entry process through the official portal by clicking the button below to complete and submit your application.