6 Bursaries for Canadian Students

Many governmental organizations as well as companies, advocacy groups, worker unions and professional organizations offer funding for post-secondary studies through bursaries. Unlike scholarships, which often emphasize academic achievement, bursaries are typically awarded based on financial need. We’ve gathered bursaries from across the country for students to add to their list.

CDIC Bursary

Indigenous women pursuing post-secondary education can apply for one of 10 bursaries offered through the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation’s Indspire’s Building Brighter Futures program. Applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, First Nations, Inuit or Métis, and be enrolled in or planning to attend a post-secondary program during the upcoming academic year. Five bursaries are reserved for students in finance, administration, IT and cybersecurity.

Eva Smith Bursary

Students with financial need who have volunteered within the African Canadian community can apply for the Eva Smith bursary program, funded by the Eva Smith Achievement Association. Each bursary is worth $500 and the number of awards available depends on funding and donations received by the association each year. The program is open to high-school graduates entering their first year of post-secondary studies, current post-secondary students, single parents returning to school and justice-system applicants enrolled in recognized post-secondary programs in Canada. Applicants are evaluated based on financial need, community involvement, educational goals and personal circumstances. 

AviateHER Bursary

Black women pursuing careers in aviation outside of piloting, such as aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers and flight dispatchers, are eligible for the AviateHER bursary. The $2,000 award is offered through a partnership between Elevate Aviation, a registered charity that promotes diversity and inclusion in the aerospace industry, and the Black Aviation Professionals Network. Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to a career in aviation, along with a dedication to inclusivity, mentorship and personal growth within the industry. To apply, students need to submit a personal essay outlining their aviation journey, career goals and financial circumstances, as well as a reference letter from a mentor, instructor or colleague.

Gwen Simmonds Memorial Bursary

Single mothers with financial need who are pursuing post-secondary education can apply for the Gwen Simmonds Memorial Bursary, offered by the Gwen Simmonds Foundation. Applicants must be Canadian citizens enrolled in a recognized post-secondary program—including college, university, apprenticeship or trades training—and have at least one child under the age of 18. Applicants are required to submit proof of enrolment, financial information and a personal statement outlining their educational goals and circumstances.

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Youth Climate Action Bursary

Calgary students involved in climate activism can apply for the Youth Climate Action Bursary, offered by the Calgary Climate Hub. The program provides at least four bursaries ranging from $500 to $1,000 each to support students who are either attending a post-secondary institution in Calgary or are graduates of a Calgary high school studying elsewhere in Canada. Open to students in any field of study, the bursary recognizes young people who are taking action on climate issues in their communities.

Saddle Hills County Veterinary Education Bursary

Students enrolled in veterinary medicine or veterinary technologist programs, as well as those who have applied to veterinary programs in northwestern Alberta, can apply for the Saddle Hills County bursary. Saddle Hills typically allocates $12,000 from their budget to recipients, with each being awarded an amount decided by the Agricultural Serve Board. Applicants do not need to live in northwestern Alberta, although preference is given to residents of the area. To apply, students must submit transcripts, proof of enrolment, two letters of reference and a short written statement outlining their educational goals and commitment to rural veterinary practice. Recipients are expected to work in a veterinary clinic in Saddle Hills County after graduation.