Hiawatha Bursary

What you will need

• ✓ Enrollment at OCAD U
• ✓ Submission of supplementary information via the AwardSpring portal

About this award

You can receive up to $2,042.13. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep — there is nothing to repay. This is for you if you are an Indigenous student (including First Nations, Métis, or Inuk) who is currently studying at OCAD University. 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. Selection is based on your financial need and the total number of students who apply. Selection criteria aren't published — ask OCAD University how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive 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 Indigenous student (First Nations, Métis, or Inuk) and you must be enrolled at OCAD U.

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 post-secondary students

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

• Financial NeedAvoid giving vague descriptions of your situation. Instead, provide clear details about your current costs and gaps in funding. List your specific monthly expenses to show why you need this supplement.
• StrategyAvoid waiting until the last minute to access the portal. Instead, log in to AwardSpring (the online system OCAD University uses to manage scholarships) early to ensure your account is active. This prevents technical glitches from missing the November 9 deadline.
• RealismAvoid assuming this award will cover all your costs. Instead, remember that this is intended to supplement your other funding sources. Plan your budget with the understanding that the final amount depends on how many other students apply.

Questions students ask

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