Indigenous Applicants

The policy outlines how applicants can apply under the Indigenous Applicant Category, either by providing accepted documentation or, if unavailable, a Personal Declaration with supporting evidence and a community reference letter. Applications are reviewed by the Indigenous Identity Substantiation Committee before proceeding to the Jackman Law Admissions Committee.

Indigenous Identity Substantiation Process (PDF)

Indigenous Identity Substantiation Process Accessible (PDF)

No, there are no quotas or minimum or maximum spots reserved for any applicant category.

On average, 13 Indigenous students enter Jackman Law annually, totaling approximately 39 across all three years.

There are no strict cut-offs for GPAs or LSAT scores for any applicant. Our JD admissions process aims to identify exceptional students who bring diverse life experiences to the study of law. We conduct a full reading of your application, giving equal weight to your LSAT, academic record, and personal profile. The review process is context-sensitive, meaning we consider all these factors together. While academic records and LSAT scores matter, we rely on your essays for insights that numbers cannot convey. We encourage students with seemingly less competitive scores to apply, as we admit many who merit offers of admission when their files are reviewed in context.

Jackman Law offers a generous Financial Aid Program to eligible students. Additionally, there are several bursaries and scholarships for Indigenous students through the University of Toronto’s First Nations House, as well as external scholarships that become available throughout the year. The Manager of Indigenous Initiatives advertises these opportunities as applications open. You can learn more about funding your education by contacting the Indigenous Initiatives Office.

Jackman Law has the June Callwood Program, offering community-based paid internships for Indigenous students in community organizations. If you're interested in the international aspects of Aboriginal law, you can propose internship projects with international Indigenous communities through the International Human Rights Program. Jackman Law also provides a clinical opportunity with Aboriginal Legal Services (ALS), where you can earn credit while gaining practical experience with ALS lawyers on Gladue matters or victim advocacy files. Additionally, you are eligible to apply for the Osgoode Intensive Program in Aboriginal Lands, Resources, and Governments. Our Indigenous Initiatives Office collaborates with the Career Development Office to ensure job opportunities with Indigenous communities and employers are up to date.

The Manager of Indigenous Initiatives implements various innovative initiatives to support the success of Indigenous students. The Coordinator provides specialized support, hosts outreach and recruitment events, connects students with Indigenous alumni for mentorship, and builds strong relationships with external and internal organizations.

The Dean offers an Academic Success Program for all first-year students facing academic difficulties or seeking to improve their exam or writing skills. Upper-year Student Advisors provide one-on-one academic mentoring sessions and group study skills workshops, all free and confidential. You can access this program individually or in small study groups and may be referred by a professor based on performance in writing assignments.

First Nations House (FNH), located at the St. George Campus, provides culturally-appropriate services for Indigenous students from various Nations across Canada, fostering a supportive community environment, cultural connections (including an Elder-in-Residence program), health and wellness supports, academic supports and more.
 

Yes, you can apply for the June Callwood Program, which offers paid internships in Indigenous community organizations. The Manager of Indigenous Initiatives also receives summer job and articling postings specifically for Indigenous students from various firms and organizations, which are shared with students and the Career Development Office.

No, our Indigenous alumni have pursued diverse careers, including various areas of law, policy work, and positions in the judiciary.

At Jackman Law, you’ll find a thriving community. The Indigenous Initiatives Office connects you with a rich network of peers, mentors, and community members across U of T and the wider urban Indigenous community.

Dive into experiential learning through the Kawaskimhon Aboriginal Moot join the editorial team of the student-run Indigenous Law Journal, and collaborate with leading Indigenous legal scholars. Our programming includes cultural events, workshops, and land-based learning opportunities that let you engage with Indigenous legal traditions and cultures in meaningful ways.

Beyond academics, you’ll find mentorship programs that connect you with upper-year students and alumni, a strong Indigenous student community through ILSA, and a chance to take part in Toronto’s dynamic Indigenous arts, culture, and activist scene. At Jackman Law, you won’t just study law; you’ll build lasting relationships, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to the change you want to see.