Mary McLean Memorial Bursary

What you will need

• ✓ Enrollment at OCAD University
• ✓ 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. Note that OCAD University bursaries generally range in value from $500 to $5,000, and the final amount depends on your financial need and how many other students apply. This is for you if you are a student in the Drawing & Painting program who has demonstrated financial need. 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 a resident of Ontario and enrolled at OCAD University. You must be a Drawing & Painting major in any year of your studies. If no students in the Drawing & Painting program qualify, the bursary will be distributed to a qualified student in the Faculty of Art.

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
• ✓ Resident of Ontario
• ✓ 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

• Financial NeedAvoid providing vague statements about your expenses. Instead, give a clear breakdown of your current costs and gaps in funding. List your monthly rent and tuition balance to show exactly why you need the funds.
• StrategyAvoid focusing only on your grades. Instead, emphasize your identity as an artist and your commitment to the Drawing & Painting program. Mention specific techniques or mediums you are exploring in your work.
• RealismAvoid assuming the full $5,000 is guaranteed. Instead, remember that OCAD University distributes funds based on the total number of applicants. Plan your budget around the lower end of the $500 to $5,000 range.

Questions students ask

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