Student Life and Support Services
First Nations House
First Nations House houses the Office of Aboriginal Student Services (OASSP) and
the Native Students’ Association. The Office provides culturally supportive
student services and programs to Aboriginal students at the University of Toronto.
Leadership, spiritual growth and academic excellence is the motto of First Nations
House. First Nations House provides a home for Aboriginal people on campus, a
place to interact with the Native community in Toronto, and a place where the
University community can learn about Native people. An open, caring, and safe
environment is promoted and maintained, and all are welcome. A weekly social on
most Fridays of the term is combined with information sessions from a variety
of organizations intended to provide students with information regarding their
future careers. Programs and services include recruitment, academic counseling
and admissions, personal counseling, academic tutoring, computers, and financial
planning services. First Nations House also has a library with a large collection
of Aboriginal specific books as well as the texts for the core ABS courses. Many
of the courses in the Aboriginal Studies Program are held at First Nations House.
First Nations House is located on the third floor of the North Borden
Building at 563 Spadina Avenue; phone 416-978-8227. We can also be reached via
email at fnh.info@utoronto.ca.
Native Students' Association (NSA)
The Native Students Association has an office and a lounge at First Nations House
where students can relax, socialize, enjoy a cup of coffee, and develop new friendships.
It is a place where students can meet and provide support and information to one
another. The NSA organizes social get-togethers and various cultural and recreational
events throughout the year. Special events and Aboriginal Awareness Week at U
of T are the NSA’s mandate. For more information on the NSA or to join,
drop by First Nations House.
Elder-in-Residence
An essential aspect of the Native community at the University of Toronto is
the Elder-in-Residence Program. Elders are available for personal consultation,
conversation and guidance at First Nations House. Contact First Nations House
for hours of availability.
Financial Support
A variety of scholarships and bursaries are available to all students at the University
of Toronto. For scholarships and bursaries directed to Aboriginal students, contact
First Nations House, 416 978-1290.
Other Relevant Information
The University of Toronto offers a multitude of other organizations, clubs,
facilities and services for the full-range of students. Contact your individual
college, department, or U
of T Student Resources for more information.
Toronto has the largest concentration of Aboriginal peoples in Canada which
allows for endless opportunities for students in the Aboriginal Studies program.
Students have access to a large variety of organizations and cultural events in
which to expand their knowledge and pursue their interests beyond campus. The
Native Canadian Centre of Toronto is located only a few blocks from First
Nations House on Spadina Road.