Foundational Learning Assistance (Alberta)

What you will need

• ✓ Acceptance into an approved program at one of the 40+ eligible Alberta institutions
• ✓ Confirmation of enrolment in the Student Management System by your school
• ✓ High School Program Approval Foundational Learning Assistance form (only for high schools/outreach schools without system access)
• ✓ Verified Alberta.ca Account
• ✓ Alberta Student Number (requested via Learner Registry)
• ✓ Social Insurance Number (SIN)

About this award

No fixed dollar amount is posted because you receive a monthly financial award calculated based on your household financial need. It is a financial award, and it counts as taxable income: you will receive a tax slip in February to include in your tax filing. It covers educational costs like tuition, mandatory fees, student association fees, books, and supplies, as well as living costs such as food, clothing, transportation, rent or mortgage, and utilities. You can be funded for a lifetime maximum of 50 months of full-time training. This is for you if you are an unemployed or underemployed Albertan looking to upgrade your high school credits, improve your English, or gain specific skills for in-demand jobs. It is especially designed for those needing a bridge to post-secondary education or a new career path. No specific calendar deadline is posted publicly, and you can submit your application up to 12 weeks before your training starts. Before you begin, check the Government of Alberta's program page or call their office to confirm current processing times. You will be notified of the amount you can get or the reasons for denial once your application is processed. Selection is based on your enrollment in an approved program and a calculation of your financial need. Because the program has a capped budget, it is not currently accepting new educational institutions. Ask Government of Alberta how they prioritize applications when funds are limited so you can judge your odds. Tuition and fees are paid directly to your educational institution. Books and supply costs are included in your first living allowance payment for each semester. Other living costs are sent to you as a monthly award. Ask Government of Alberta during your application if these payments arrive via direct deposit or cheque so you can plan your cash flow. To keep your funding, you must report any changes to your income, marital status, number of dependents, or attendance status as soon as they happen. Renewal conditions aren't listed in detail, so if you are counting on this for multiple years, confirm with Government of Alberta what you need to maintain to keep your eligibility.

Who qualifies

You must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a Protected person (someone with refugee or protected-person status in Canada) who is legally entitled to work and study in Canada. You must have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN). You must be 18 years of age when your program starts, though the Government of Alberta may waive this for individuals as young as 16. You must have an established Alberta address and live in Alberta for the whole program. Regarding employment, full-time students must be unemployed or work fewer than 20 hours per week. If you work more than 20 hours a week, you may be eligible for part-time studies; if you want to leave your job to attend training, a Client Service Specialist will contact you to discuss your eligibility. If you receive Employment Insurance (EI — the federal unemployment insurance program) benefits, you can receive this funding until your claim ends, but you are not eligible if you receive EI Special Benefits.

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.

• ✓ Canadian citizen, permanent resident or protected person
• ✓ Open to high school or trades students
• ✓ Resident of Alberta
• ✓ Studying Academic upgrading, Adult Basic Education, English as an Additional Language, Integrated Foundational Pathways, Transitional Vocational Programs or Pre Apprenticeship Programs

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

   Check this year's deadline

   We don't have a confirmed date for this round. The award's official page will have it.

Tips for applying

• Program ChoiceAvoid picking a program without checking its status first. Instead, contact the school directly to ensure they offer approved Foundational Learning Assistance programming. This prevents you from spending time on an application for a non-eligible course.
• Account SetupAvoid waiting until the last minute to create your digital IDs. Instead, set up your verified Alberta.ca Account and request your Alberta Student Number from the Learner Registry immediately. Creating an account can take up to 10 days, which could delay your funding.
• StrategyAvoid submitting an incomplete application. Instead, double-check that you have answered every question yourself and that your enrollment is confirmed in the Student Management System. Incorrect forms cause processing delays that could affect your start date.
• RealismAvoid assuming this will cover all your health needs. Instead, remember that health benefits are not included in this award. Apply separately to the Alberta Adult Health Benefit if you need medical coverage.

Questions students ask

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