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Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program (BSc)

For Bachelor of Science (BSc) applicants

OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, February 15
10 a.m. to 4 p.m

Learn more
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Duration
1 to 2 years
Primary campus
Sir George Williams (SGW)
Start term
Fall

What is the Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program?

Pronunciation: Gaa-Yay-Ree Knee-Gaa-Way-Raa-Geh

The Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program is a path to university education for First Nations, Inuit and Métis students who are seeking alternate entry to Concordia University and are ready to pursue undergraduate studies.

Through the Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program, you will complete the prerequisite courses needed for entry into your desired program while building your capacity for academic success through classes in academic writing, study skills and time management.

Courses will be taken as a cohort, fostering a sense of community throughout your three terms. Support systems designed to facilitate your transition into university and Montreal life are embedded within the Bridging Program, including experiential learning opportunities through the Otsenhákta Student Centre and mentorship through a bridging seminar.

Program highlights

  • Complete prerequisite courses for the Bachelor of Science program of your choice while gaining credits towards your undergraduate degree
  • Build relationships with other Indigenous students
  • Enjoy experiential learning opportunities through the Otsenhákta Student Centre 
  • Experience Indigenous mentorship

Program structure

  • Duration: one and a half years (three terms)
  • Credits: full-time, 37 credits

You will be enrolled in the prerequisite courses needed to transition into the Bachelor of Science (BSc) program of your choice. You will also earn the math and science courses required for all BSc programs, two writing courses, elective courses, and University Skills courses. Unique to the bridging program is a year-long seminar course designed for Indigenous students, with the goal of addressing your academic and holistic needs in a safe setting. Many credits earned in the bridging program will count towards your Bachelor of Science degree.

Courses

First term - Fall:

Second term - Winter:

Final term - Fall:

Note: Upon successful completion of the courses in the bridging program, students should consult with an advisor to review the requirements for their selected Bachelor of Science program.  

Admission criteria

Applicants to the Kaié:ri Nikawerà:ke Indigenous Bridging Program must meet the following conditions:

  1. Applicants must be First Nations, Inuit or Métis peoples whose communities are located in Canada. Applicants must submit proof of Indigenous identity, citizenship, and age.
  2. Applicants must prove their potential to undertake undergraduate courses, despite not meeting the typical academic requirements.
  3. Applicants must have been out of school — that is not engaged in full-time study — for at least 12 months since attaining the age of 18. Applicants who have been out of school for less than 12 months are also admissible provided that they have had no unfavourable academic record in the previous 12 months.
  4. Applicants must submit school records and any material which may indicate ability to pursue university studies.
  5. Some students may require courses in English as a Second Language, as determined by language proficiency testing. Refer to Concordia’s English language proficiency guidelines to check eligibility.

Applicants whose academic background qualifies them for regular admission are not eligible for the bridging program.

NOTE: Each application will be reviewed on an individual basis. Meeting these conditions may not guarantee admission into the bridging program.

Application deadlines

Fall term

FALL TERM

March 1 is the official deadline to apply for fall term entry.

Please email the program coordinator if you have any questions about the program or application process.

Winter term

WINTER

Admission to this program is available for the Fall Term only.

We reserve the right to close admission to a program at any time after the official deadline without prior notice.

After the bridging program

Upon successful completion of the program terms, you will move into your chosen BSc program without needing to reapply for admission. Moving forward, you will be able to:

  • Start a BSc degree with several credits already completed
  • Study the science discipline of your interest with competent academic and university skills
  • Identify resources on campus for your personal and professional success
  • Connect with a supportive community of Indigenous students and professionals

How to apply

  1. Go to concordia.ca/applynow to start a new admissions application.
  2. Follow the steps to create a Concordia Netname. Once in the application, select “I am an Indigenous student and do not have the required courses.”
  3. Complete the admissions application. You will need to apply directly to your BA/BSc program of your choice.
  4. Upload the following as part of your application:
    • A letter of intent outlining: 
      • Why you have chosen to study at university through the bridging program
      • The reasons for your choice of program, including your goals and aspirations 
      • Descriptions of experience, knowledge or skills which you have acquired that would assist you in your studies
    • A birth certificate or other accepted proof of age
    • Transcripts 
    • Proof of Indigenous identity (documentation to be determined)
    • Curriculum vitae (CV) or resumé (optional)

Tuition and funding

The tuition fees of the program may differ depending on your student status. To estimate the cost of your education at Concordia, go through our five (5) easy steps.

Bursaries for students in financial need are available upon admission into the program.
Contact the program coordinator for more information.

Interested in student housing?

If you require housing, email the program coordinator once you submit your application to discuss your housing options.

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