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Michael McKiernan

Reviewed by G Paul · verified September 1, 2026

Nov 1, 2026

Next deadline

What you will need

Proof of First Nations affiliation
Documentation of demonstrated financial need
For Michael McKiernan Justice Award applicants: proof of enrollment or intended enrollment in a post-secondary program, technical training, or development program in the field of Justice

About this award

Deadlines fall on August 1, November 1 and February 1 for Indigenous students seeking post-secondary funding based on financial need.

The provider doesn't post a fixed dollar amount — contact Michael McKiernan to confirm the value for your specific award before you apply. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep and you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are a First Nations student who needs financial help to pursue your education and wants to create a better future for your community. Deadlines come around three times a year on August 1, November 1 and February 1, so aim for whichever one is next. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — whether it is by email, a portal, or phone. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Michael McKiernan how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask Michael McKiernan during your application how the money will reach you — some awards pay students directly, others apply funds to tuition. Confirm this so you can plan your cash flow. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with Michael McKiernan whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

To qualify for the main award, you must be a First Nation student attending a post-secondary institution with demonstrated financial need. You can be in any program of study at any level of study. Preference will be given to students from some of Canada’s poorest First Nation communities including: Attawapiskat, Pikangikum, Kashechewan, and Rankin Inlet. For the Michael McKiernan Justice Award, you must be an Indigenous student enrolled, or planning to enroll, in post-secondary studies, technical training, or development programs of all lengths in duration specifically in the field of Justice.

This is what the award's own page said when we last checked. Rules change, so confirm with the provider before you apply.

Studying Justice

How to apply

Read the award's own page
Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.
Submit your application
Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

More details

Financial Need

Avoid providing a vague statement about needing money.

Instead, provide a detailed breakdown of your costs and income gaps.

List your specific expenses to show exactly why this funding is necessary.

Support

Avoid using a generic character reference.

Instead, use referees who can speak to your connection to your community and your goals for the future.

Ask a community leader or teacher to highlight your leadership potential.

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