Mary McLean Bursary for Indigenous Students

What you will need

• ✓ Enrollment at OCAD U (Ontario College of Art and Design University)
• ✓ Submission via the 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. Note that OCAD University (Ontario College of Art and Design University) bursaries generally range in value from $500 to $5,000, and the final amount depends on your financial need and how many students apply. This is for you if you are an Indigenous student in financial need who wishes to pursue a career in the arts. 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 enrolled at OCAD U (Ontario College of Art and Design University). This award specifically targets Indigenous students who are experiencing financial need and who wish to pursue artistic careers.

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

• Artistic GoalsAvoid giving a vague answer about liking art. Instead, describe the specific type of artistic career you want to build and why it matters to you. Write a few sentences about your vision for your future work.
• Financial NeedAvoid simply stating that you need money. Instead, provide a clear picture of your current financial situation and how this bursary would remove a specific barrier to your studies. List your primary expenses and gaps in funding.
• RealismAvoid assuming the full $5,000 is guaranteed. Instead, remember that OCAD University distributes funds based on the total number of applicants and their level of need. Plan your budget using the lower end of the $500 to $5,000 range.

Questions students ask

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