OCAD U Access Accommodation Bursary (Domestic)

What you will need

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

About this award

You can receive up to $5,000 per student, though OCAD University notes that 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 living with a permanent, persistent or prolonged disability and need help paying for tools or services that help you learn. You must apply by November 9, 2026. When you apply, ask how and when you'll 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

You qualify if you have a permanent, persistent or prolonged disability. This funding is for the costs of recommended assessments, assistive technology, services, or equipment not covered through another financial assistance program. Before you apply, you are expected to seek support from your provincial student loan/grant program such as OSAP (the Ontario Student Assistance Program — the provincial office that manages grants and loans), the Bursary for Students with Disabilities, the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment - Students with Disabilities, and any other sources like extended benefit plans.

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

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 relying on a single source of funding. Instead, show that you have already applied to OSAP (the Ontario Student Assistance Program) and other federal grants. List the specific amounts you were denied or the gaps that remain.
• StrategyAvoid waiting until the November deadline to gather your paperwork. Instead, contact OCAD University's accessibility services early to ensure your requested equipment is officially recommended. This ensures your application matches the school's requirements.
• RealismAvoid assuming the full $5,000 is guaranteed. Instead, remember that OCAD University distributes funds based on your financial need and the total number of students who apply. Plan your budget around the $500 minimum rather than the maximum.

Questions students ask

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