Architect Douglas Cardinal designed First Nations University of Canada's main building in Regina, with a glass tipi-shaped atrium facing the University of Regina campus. The university began in 1976 as the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College. It's federated with the University of Regina, which grants its degrees, and it's owned and run by First Nations. Programmes centre on Indigenous studies, languages, social work, education and health.
Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
Official website: fnuniv.ca
1976
University of Regina
Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert
First Nations-governed university
CA$20,000 – CA$26,000
International students, undergraduate tuition
CA$12,000 – CA$15,000
Rent, food and local transport
Approximate figures for 2026-27, please verify. Fees change every year and vary by course, so check the latest amount on fnuniv.ca before you apply.
BA Indigenous Studies
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Sep, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
Bachelor of Indian Social Work
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Sep
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
BA Indigenous Languages
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Sep
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
Bachelor of Business Administration (Indigenous Business)
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Sep, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 80
Indigenous-centred teaching, owned and governed by First Nations.
Indigenous language study, including Cree.
A Douglas Cardinal building on the Regina campus.
Graduates work in Indigenous governments, social services, health and education.
Social work graduates join child and family services across the Prairies.
Graduates can apply for a post-graduation work permit.
Undergrad
Spring
Postgrad
No PG intake
Undergrad
Autumn
Postgrad
No PG intake
The Regina campus sits at the edge of the University of Regina, near the Wascana Centre, a big urban park around a lake.
Regina is Saskatchewan's capital, small and affordable. Winters are long and very cold, and summers are sunny.
Letter of acceptance from the institution
Saskatchewan provincial attestation letter
Proof of funds for tuition and living
Online IRCC study permit application
Medical exam, if requested
Valid passport and biometrics
International students should apply in spring for September and in autumn for January. Check deadlines with the University of Regina admissions office.
Classes start in September and January.
You'll need a study permit. First Nations University of Canada sends a letter of acceptance, and most students also need a provincial attestation letter. The permit application goes online to IRCC with proof of funds and biometrics.
Indigenous studies, social work, languages and business are the main programmes. Entry needs secondary school completion equivalent to Saskatchewan's and English at IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80.
The University of Regina has international entrance scholarships. First Nations University also offers awards, mostly for Indigenous students.
