National Bank Emergency Bursary

What you will need

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

About this award

You can receive a one-time payment of up to $5,000 per student. Other OCAD University 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 facing urgent, severe circumstances that create immediate financial hardship, such as sudden housing instability or unexpected medical bills. 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 a phone call. Selection is done on a case-by-case basis. The amount you receive depends on your financial need and the total number of students who apply. Ask OCAD University 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. These are one-time emergency solutions and are not meant to assist domestic students on an ongoing basis.

Who qualifies

You must be a student at OCAD University experiencing urgent, severe circumstances. Eligible situations include temporary housing or housing instability, unexpected medical or dental expenses, sudden loss of income, or the need to repair or replace essential academic technology. Before you apply, you are expected to have already accessed your provincial student loan and grant programs, as well as all personal sources of income and savings. International students experiencing a financial emergency should contact International Student Services at international@ocadu.ca for assistance.

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

• SupportAvoid submitting the application without checking other options first. Instead, show that you have already applied for provincial loans and grants. List the personal savings or other income sources you have already used.
• RealismAvoid viewing this as a permanent source of income. Instead, treat this as a one-time emergency solution for a short-term crisis. Plan your remaining semester budget knowing this is not an ongoing payment.

Questions students ask

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