First Generation Bursary

What you will need

• ✓ Complete the application through the OCAD University AwardSpring scholarship portal

About this award

You can receive up to $5,000 for this award. While the maximum is $5,000, OCAD University notes that their bursaries generally range in value from $500 to $5,000. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep — there is nothing to repay. This is for you if you are a first-generation student, meaning neither of your parents attended post-secondary studies inside or outside of Canada. It is okay if your siblings attended post-secondary school. You must apply by November 9, 2026. When you apply, ask OCAD University how and when you will hear back — whether it is through email, the portal, or by 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 an undergraduate student enrolled at OCAD University and be a resident of Ontario. You must be enrolled in your first degree, diploma, or certificate program. This award is for students whose parents have not attended post-secondary studies, whether those studies were inside or outside of Canada. You must also demonstrate financial need.

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
• ✓ Resident of Ontario

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 the application without double-checking your parent's education history. Instead, confirm exactly what counts as post-secondary study with OCAD University. Call the financial aid office to clarify if a specific type of training counts as a degree or diploma.
• StrategyAvoid waiting until the November 9 deadline to upload your files. Instead, submit your application through the AwardSpring portal early to avoid technical glitches. Set a personal deadline for November 1.
• RealismAvoid assuming you will get the full $5,000. Instead, remember that OCAD University scales these awards from $500 up to $5,000 based on how many people apply. Plan your budget using the lower end of that range.

Questions students ask

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