Studying at Université Laval

First Nations and Inuit Applicants

Whether your career plans involve working in your community or elsewhere in the country or abroad, Université Laval has a variety of programs, program options, and teaching methods tailored to your needs so that you can achieve your goals.

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Admission to Université Laval

Admission to Université Laval is based primarily on academic excellence. To be accepted into a program, you must hold the minimum diploma required for the level of studies you are pursuing and demonstrate an adequate level of French proficiency. See the admission requirements before applying.

Reserved seats in limited enrolment programs

Many limited enrolment programs have reserved seats for applicants who hold a college or university diploma, are Québec residents, and are recognized Inuit or registered members of a First Nation in Québec.

If you would like to be considered for one of these seats, you must voluntarily indicate your Indigenous status as part of the application process. If you choose not to declare your Indigenous status, your application cannot be considered for these reserved seats.

Information on self-declaration

Self-declaration helps Université Laval achieve its equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) objectives by providing a more accurate picture of designated groups. This enables the university to put services in place to meet the needs of these groups and inform them about the services and resources available to help them successfully complete their studies.

Self-declaration is a voluntary process and does not necessarily involve providing proof. However, in some situations (scholarships, reserved seats, etc.), proof of official status may be required. Those concerned will be informed of this requirement.

How reserved seats are assigned

The way reserved seats are assigned varies depending on the program.

Université Laval has more than 550 programs covering every field of study. Find yours!

First Nations and Inuit in action

Université Laval is located at the crossroads of a number of Indigenous nation territories and has one of the largest First Nations and Inuit student populations of all Québec universities. It has a long history of doing research in collaboration with Indigenous peoples, particularly in northern environments, where it has been making a name for itself for over 60 years.

Université Laval is proud of its accomplishments, and in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action, it has undertaken to leverage this shared history to find the most effective ways of making reconciliation a reality on campus.

Testimonies

“I’m a firm believer in activism and advocacy and really wanted to get involved in the university community. I had the opportunity to join the Indigenous Health Interest Group (GISA) and help develop a mini-school project in the health sciences. The goal of the project was to introduce Indigenous youth to the health professions and promote the value of graduation and higher education.

As a future health professional, I want to work in Indigenous communities and provide proper care. As a member of a First Nation, I’m very aware of the realities and issues faced by Indigenous communities.”

Ève Martin-Riverin
Medical student
Pessamit Innu Band

“ULaval opened up new horizons that went beyond my expectations. I want to tell future Indigenous students not to be intimidated by the size of the campus and the number of students, and not to worry too much about the specific path for your studies or your job prospects after graduation. Believe in yourself and say yes to every opportunity that comes your way. I’m convinced that education is the key to galvanizing Indigenous communities and achieving self-governance.”

Suzie O'Bomsawin
Graduate of the Combined Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Politics and the MBA in International Development and Humanitarian Action 
Abenaki Nation, Odanak

“I’m from Mashteuiatsh, but I grew up outside my community. My academic and professional paths were shaped by my interest in integrated resource management and Indigenous forestry. The Master’s in Forestry at Université Laval was the springboard I needed to deepen my understanding of Indigenous issues, which led to a career as the manager of a unit dedicated to protecting Innu land and rights."

“I’m now the Director of Land Rights and Protection for Pekuakamiulnuatsh Takuhikan, which has services and programs to make sure Pekuakamiulnuatsh  can practice their traditional activities.”

Steve Morel
Bachelor’s Degree in Forest Development and Environment, Master’s in Forestry
Pekuakamiulnuatsh Nation, Lac-Saint-Jean