Post-Secondary Program

Post-Secondary Program

The Berens River First Nation Post-Secondary Program provides educational sponsorship, guidance, and financial support to eligible Band members attending university, college, or accredited training programs. The purpose of the program is simple: to help students remove financial barriers, settle into post-secondary life, and work toward graduation with the support they need.

We know how hard it can be to leave home, adjust to a new city, and navigate everything on your own. The Post-Secondary Program is here to make that transition easier by offering clear information, consistent communication, and support that puts students first.

All applications are reviewed by the Berens River First Nation Education Committee, who prioritize community needs while maintaining the program’s fiscal responsibilities.

Post-Secondary Application Form

Application & Sponsorship Process

Every year, following the April 30th application deadline, the Education Committee reviews both new applications and renewals during the annual sponsorship selection process. Their responsibility is to ensure that funding is allocated fairly, responsibly, and in alignment with community priorities.

Sponsorship Priority Levels

CATEGORY I

Applicants enrolled in professional or postgraduate studies

(e.g., master’s programs, post-baccalaureate degrees, etc.).

Applications will be reviewed and approved based on community priority needs.

CATEGORY II

Continuing or returning applicants who meet minimum GPA requirements:

·       Students enrolled over 1 year in a post-secondary, technical, or other institution.

·       Returning applicants who meet the minimum GPA requirements and who had previously arranged an education sabbatical.

 

CATEGORY III

Graduating applicants with:

·       A Regular Grade 12 Diploma, and enrolled over 1 year in a recognized institution; or

·       A GED Grade 12 or equivalent.

 

Category IV

Applicants enrolled in part-time post-secondary studies, OR

Students in programs longer than 1 year at a recognized institution.

This includes applicants who are currently employed with Berens River First Nation and entering programs or special training to increase qualifications or build higher capacity in their career field.

 

Category V

Applicants requiring separate consideration:

1.     Applicants enrolled in a second professional degree program or changing disciplines.

2.     Applicants seeking re-admittance or who were previously discontinued in their program.

3.     Applicants changing programs without completing the previous one due to poor grades or poor attendance.

4.     Applicants in programs that exceed the normal sponsorship timeframe (ex: 5 years in a 4-year program).

5.     Applicants previously discontinued for misuse of funding.

6.     Applicants previously suspended or withdrawn from sponsorship.

Submitting an application does not guarantee approval, as funding is limited each year.

Application Requirements

A complete application package must include:

  • Autobiography or Continuing Student Essay
  • Recent academic transcript
  • Official acceptance letter
  • All required documentation listed in the application form
  • Recommendation letters:
  • Optional for first-time applicants
  • Mandatory if previously suspended, dropped, or academically withdrawn

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Supports Provided

Approved students may receive:

  • Tuition assistance (up to policy limits)
  • Monthly living allowances
  • Academic achievement incentives
  • All required books needed for program
  • Students receive $75.00 for supplies twice per year (September and January).
  • Administrative advocacy with institutions
  • Regular academic monitoring and counselling

All supports follow the Post-Secondary Policy and annual budget.

 

Would you like to talk to us?

We are open on Monday – Friday, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Closed on Holidays and weekends.

Our Address

Unit 1 – 225 McPhillips Street,

Winnipeg, Manitoba

R3E 2K3

Phone: (204) 982-0691
Fax: (204) 774-6591

General Email: studentservices@brfneducation.com

Staff Contact

For inquiries, application assistance, or program questions, please contact Sarah Disbrowe, Post-Secondary Counsellor.

Phone: (204) 982-0692

Email : sarah.disbrowe@brfneducation.com

Role of the Post-Secondary Counsellor

Our Post-Secondary Counsellor provides guidance and support to Berens River First Nation students as they pursue university, college, and accredited training programs. Their role includes:

Student Support: Offering ongoing counselling, check-ins, and student guidance throughout their academic program

Academic Monitoring: Tracking academic progress, supporting academic improvement, and assisting with course planning

Education Pathways: Discussing career goals, education plans, and pathways to graduation

Financial Administration: Managing program budgets, student funding, and financial planning

Committee Coordination: Organizing and presenting at quarterly Education Committee conferences

File Management: Developing and maintaining accurate, confidential student files

Institution Liaison: Processing tuition payments and communicating with post-secondary institutions

Financial Asistance: Issuing monthly living allowances, required expenses, academic incentives, and approved travel payments

Student Engagement: Attending and speaking at student events, gatherings, and recognition ceremonies

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the post-secondary application deadline?

Deadline for fall start date is April 30th of every year. Deadline for winter start date is October 30th of every year (only if are funds available).

Who is eligible for dependents?

Only students under the post-secondary program and employment and training program are eligible for dependents. Dependents must be registered as a band member with Berens River First Nation.

What is the maximum funding for post-secondary tuition?

The maximum funding for tuition is $4,000.00 CAD per term

Am I eligible for spring/summer session with the post-secondary program?

Eligibility will only apply to those applicants who require those classes offered during those sessions to complete their program of study.

Students must have a 2.0 GPA or higher with NO VOLUNTARY WITHDRAWALS in the session before the spring/summer term the student is applying for.

Are there any incentives upon graduation?

  • A $250.00 gift incentive will be paid to all post-secondary graduates as well as a one-time only $150.00 for grad expenses.
  • Honorary gifts shall be awarded to all graduates, such as sweaters, shirts and/or gifts of recognition.