Cathy Daley Bursary

What you will need

• ✓ Submission via the OCAD University AwardSpring scholarship portal

About this award

You can receive up to $5,000 per student. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep — there is nothing to repay. You may be able to have this award renewed for up to four consecutive years total. This is for you if you are a first-year art student specializing in Drawing & Painting who identifies as a female Black or Indigenous person, as preference is given to these students. You must apply by November 9, 2026. When you apply, ask OCAD University how and when you'll hear back — whether it is by email, the portal, or phone. OCAD University says its bursaries are given out based on financial need and the number of students who apply. Ask OCAD University's financial aid office how many students usually apply, so you can judge your odds. Ask OCAD University 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 OCAD University whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

To qualify, you must be a first year student enrolled full-time in the Drawing & Painting program at OCAD University. You must also demonstrate financial need through OSAP (the Ontario Student Assistance Program — the provincial and federal government's financial aid system for students). Preference is given to female Black or Indigenous students.

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

• ✓ Open to undergraduate students
• ✓ Studying Drawing & Painting

How to apply

1. 1

   Read the award's official page

   Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.

2. 2

   Submit your application

   Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

Tips for applying

• SupportAvoid submitting a generic reference. Instead, ask a mentor or professor in the arts who knows your work in Drawing & Painting to provide a specific example of your skill. Request a letter that highlights your growth as an artist.
• RealismAvoid assuming the full $5,000 is guaranteed. Instead, remember that OCAD University disburses bursaries based on the number of applicants and their level of need. Plan your budget with the understanding that the final amount may vary.

Questions students ask

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